Imphal: Manipur celebrated Mera Hou Chongba at the historic Kangla Fort on Monday, reaffirming the shared cultural heritage and bonds between the state’s hill and valley communities.
The annual festival, observed on the full moon day of the lunar month of Mera in the Meitei calendar, symbolises unity, brotherhood and mutual respect among the indigenous communities of Manipur.
A traditional procession led by Manipur’s titular king, Leishemba Sanajaoba, proceeded from Sana Konung, the royal palace, to Kangla Fort, where he performed rituals and offered prayers for the well-being of the people and the state. He also lit a lantern symbolising light, prosperity and unity.
Speaking to the media, Sanajaoba said Mera Hou Chongba represented the longstanding relationship between the hill and valley communities, tracing the tradition to the time of Nongda Lairen Pakhangba.
He expressed hope for peace, unity and prosperity in the state, while regretting that the prevailing situation had prevented the festival from being celebrated on a larger scale.
Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh described the festival as a “Day of Integrity”, reflecting the unity and enduring bonds among the people of Manipur.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister said the coming together of hill and valley communities on the occasion symbolised the state’s shared identity. He recalled how Manipur’s 36 communities had stood together in defending the land and its independence, including during the Anglo-Manipur War and the Seven Years’ Devastation.
He said their shared history and collective sacrifices underscored the importance of preserving the state’s unity and integrity.
The Chief Minister also lauded Sanajaoba for his initiative in ensuring the timely completion of the Hill Chiefs’ Guest House in Imphal. He said the facility would provide accommodation for hill chiefs visiting the state capital and help strengthen ties between the hill and valley communities.
As part of the celebration, a souvenir was released and gifts were exchanged between representatives of the hills and the valley, symbolising friendship, mutual respect and solidarity.
The Chief Minister expressed hope that the guest house would serve as a welcoming space for hill chiefs and community leaders visiting Imphal, further strengthening relationships among the state’s communities.
Minister of Home Govindas Konthoujam, Minister of Arts and Culture and Tourism Khuraijam Loken Singh, MLAs, Chief Secretary Rajeev Singh Thakur, hill chiefs, officials and police personnel also attended the event.
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