Imphal: Imoinu Iratpa, also called Emoinu Iratpa or Wakching Taranithoini Panba, is a significant religious festival celebrated in every household of the Meetei/Meitei community and across Manipur on Wednesday.
The day was marked by offerings, prayers, and community events.
It is a festival of lights dedicated to the goddess of wealth and prosperity, Imoinu Ahongbi.
Celebrated on the twelfth lunar day of the Wakching month of the Meitei calendar, the festival is observed in Manipur, Assam, and Tripura, and by some communities in neighboring Myanmar.
The celebrations include sacrifices and prayers to the goddess, followed by various cultural events.
As part of the celebration, titular Manipur king and Rajya Sabha MP from the state, Leishemba Sanajaoba, inaugurated an Ima Imoinu temple at Haying Khongbam near the First Manipur Rifles in Imphal West district.
The celebration began with Pena Yakairol, a traditional invocation using the Pena, an indigenous musical instrument. This was followed by offerings of rice, vegetables, and fruits to Goddess Imoinu, symbolizing gratitude for abundance and prosperity.
The ritual of Cheng Chaiba, offering rice grains to the goddess, was also performed as part of the prayers for peace and prosperity.
Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla, Speaker of the Manipur Legislative Assembly Th. Satyabrata, Singjamei AC MLA Y. Khemchand, Mayang Imphal AC MLA K. Robindro, and several organizations conveyed their greetings on the occasion.
The Governor noted that the festival symbolizes happiness and richness, and it is observed across the state in vibrant and unique ways that showcase the rich cultural heritage and traditions of Manipur.