Imphal: A week-long cultural and educational programme aimed at promoting closer ties between Manipur and Japan began on Sunday at the Imphal Peace Museum in Maibam Lotpa Ching, Nambol.
The Imphal-Japan Harmony Week 2026 is being organised jointly by the Imphal Peace Museum and the Manipur Tourism Forum under the aegis of the Embassy of Japan in India. The initiative is part of the broader Japan Month celebrations and will continue until November 7.
Chief Secretary Rajeev Singh Thakur inaugurated the event in the presence of Youth Affairs and Sports and Art and Culture Secretary N Praveen, senior government officials, artists, students and representatives of civil society organisations.
Addressing the inaugural gathering, Thakur highlighted the historical connection between Manipur and Japan, noting that a relationship once marked by the violence of the Second World War had gradually transformed into one based on peace, friendship and mutual respect.
He said stronger engagement between the two regions could create opportunities in several sectors, including education, technology, healthcare, tourism and sustainable development.
Art and Culture Secretary N Praveen urged students and young people to participate actively in the programmes lined up for the week. He encouraged them to draw inspiration from Japan’s discipline and creativity while exploring emerging educational and professional opportunities.
The week-long programme includes a special exhibition on Japan featuring historical photographs, information panels and archival materials highlighting the shared history of Manipur and Japan. Japanese films will also be screened daily, alongside educational exhibitions.
The initiative has received support from the Government of Manipur, the Sasakawa Peace Foundation and the Japan Foundation, New Delhi.
The Imphal Peace Museum, which serves as the venue for the programme, is located at Red Hill, a significant site associated with the Second World War. Thousands of Japanese and Allied soldiers lost their lives during the 1944 Battle of Imphal in the area. The museum now stands as a symbol of peace and reconciliation, transforming a historic battlefield into a place for promoting international friendship.
Imphal-Japan Harmony Week 2026: Programme schedule
The seven-day event, scheduled from November 1 to 7, features the following activities:
- November 1: Inaugural ceremony and Japanese film screenings
- November 2: Traditional kimono and yukata try-on experience
- November 3: Panel discussion on “The Need for Peace Education in Nation Building”
- November 4: Panel discussion on skilling and working in Japan
- November 5: Manipuri-Japanese calligraphy workshop
- November 6: Anime and manga-inspired poster-making competition
- November 7: Valedictory function
Through exhibitions, cultural exchanges and educational activities, the initiative seeks to deepen people-to-people connections and encourage greater engagement between Manipur and Japan.