Imphal: Governor of Manipur, Ajay Kumar Bhalla, on Friday, inaugurated the 12th Edition of the Manipur Sangai Festival, 2025 at Hapta Kangjeibung in Imphal, marking the premier cultural and tourism showcase.
The festival embodies the essence of the ‘Festival of Oneness,’ celebrating entrepreneurial energy, tourism potential, indigenous dance, music, crafts, and traditional sports.
The festival stands not only as a cultural celebration but also as a symbol of resilience and social harmony, as over 135 potential tourist sites are being identified for holistic development.
Addressing the inaugural function at the Bhagyachandra Open Air Theatre (BOAT), the Governor underscored that Manipur’s cultural heritage is a treasure for the entire nation and noted that the expanded multi-venue format reflects Manipur’s renewed confidence and collective commitment to economic revival, with the festival acting as a catalyst for livelihood generation across artisans, youth, and local enterprises.
Acknowledging the plight of Internally Displaced Persons, he stressed that their well-being remains a paramount State responsibility.
He noted government measures, including phased rehabilitation, financial assistance, prefabricated housing, and cash-based support systems to restore stability and dignity.
The governor appealed to the people to reaffirm the festival’s spirit of oneness, expressed hope for lasting peace, and urged people to participate in the festival wholeheartedly.
The 2025 edition will feature cultural performances, indigenous sports, adventure activities, literary sessions, film screenings, tourism familiarisation tours, the Hiyang Tannaba boat race, and the Cherry Blossom Festival at Mao.
MLAs – Th. Biswajit Singh and Th. Basanta Kumar, Chief Secretary; Security Advisor, DGP, Advocate General, senior officers of the State Government; and members of the public attended the inaugural function.
Earlier, the Governor, accompanied by the First Lady, visited the festival ground at Hapta Kangjeibung.