Titular King Sanajaoba Appeals to All Indigenous People to Unite for a Peaceful Manipur on Mera Hou Chongba Festival

Sanajaoba emphasized the significance of the festival, calling it "the only common customary festival of the indigenous people of Manipur."

The titular King of Manipur and Rajya Sabha MP, Maharaja Leishemba Sanajaoba, has appealed to all indigenous people to unite and work together for a brighter and more peaceful Manipur on the occasion of the Mera Hou Chongba festival.

Speaking to the media about the festival, Maharaja Sanajaoba said, “This festival, Mera Hou Chongba, is a symbol of the intermingling and amalgamation of our people. I appeal to all indigenous people to join hands and work together for a brighter and more peaceful Manipur.”

The event began in the morning with rituals performed by priest along with Maharaja Leishemba Sanajaoba at the Royal Palace. The celebrations continued at Kangla Fort, Manipur, where several prominent figures, including cabinet ministers and MLAs, attended.

Maharaja Sanajaoba emphasized the significance of the festival, calling it “the only common customary festival of the indigenous people of Manipur.” He expressed hope that Mera Hou Chongba would continue to strengthen the “age-old bond of love” between the hill and valley communities, fostering unity and harmony in the state.

He also encouraged people from the hill regions to actively participate in the event, stressing that their involvement is crucial to upholding the spirit of unity.

A representative of the Maram community underscored the importance of the festival, saying, “We believe that Mera Hou Chongba brings the indigenous people of Manipur together. It is a platform where we celebrate oneness and the spirit of coming together.”

The festival, celebrated during the lunar month of Mera, typically falling in September or October—holds deep cultural and religious significance. It serves as a reminder of the historical ties between the various ethnic communities of Manipur and promotes peaceful coexistence and solidarity.

The festival, which symbolizes the unity between the hill tribes and valley people, featured vibrant cultural displays and traditional performances that reinforced the bond between these distinct groups. The Maram tribe, in particular, drew attention with their performance of an indigenous game—naked wrestling—showcasing their unique cultural heritage.

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