IMPHAL, Oct 26: Manipur celebrated Mera Hou Chongba, the traditional festival symbolising the bond between the hill and valley communities, at the historic Kangla Fort and Sana Konung (Royal Palace) on Monday, although the prevailing law and order situation kept the celebrations relatively subdued.
The day-long observance began in the morning with a procession led by titular king Leishemba Sanajaoba from Sana Konung to Kangla Fort. Traditional rituals, including Mera Men Tongba, Mera Yenkhong Tamba and Mera Thaomei Thanba, which involves lighting a lamp atop a bamboo pole, were performed at the historic site.
Organised by the State Level Mera Hou Chongba Committee in association with the Manipur government, the festival formed part of the Mera Hou Chongba 2026 celebrations.
Speaking to the media, Sanajaoba described the festival as a customary observance representing the enduring bond between Manipur’s hill and valley communities. He said the tradition dated back to the time of Nongda Lairen Pakhangba and expressed hope for peace, unity and prosperity in the state. He also regretted that the prevailing law and order situation had prevented celebrations on a grand scale.
The afternoon programme was attended by Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh, ministers Govindas Konthoujam and Khuraijam Loken Singh, and several MLAs.
The exchange of gifts between representatives of the hill and valley communities, symbolising brotherhood and mutual understanding, was a key feature of the event. Traditional dance performances and the release of a souvenir also marked the occasion.
Participants from various hill districts arrived in Imphal two days before the festival to take part in the celebrations, reaffirming Mera Hou Chongba’s significance as a symbol of unity and cultural solidarity among Manipur’s communities.
