Guwahati: Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh declared on October 26 that the traditional festival Mera Hou Chongba should serve as a day of integrity. He delivered these remarks at Kangla Fort in Imphal during the afternoon session of the 2026 celebration. The State Level Committee on Mera Hou Chongba hosted the event. Singh pointed to the deep connection between the hill and valley residents, noting the tradition dates back to the reign of Nongda Lairen Pakhangba. He urged the people to hold onto this unity.
History matters. Singh reminded the crowd that Manipur’s 36 communities once stood together to fight off British rule and Burmese invasions. Vokendro Haobijam, who heads the anthropology department at Manipur University, attended the event. He noted that the festival carries particular weight during the ongoing local conflict. Haobijam hopes to see solidarity grow among all indigenous groups. Adani Lidziisa, a headmistress from the Mao community, traveled from Senapati district to Imphal to attend for the first time. She voiced her support for the event, stating, "I felt glad to witness an event symbolising unity between the hill and valley."
The festival lands on the 15th lunar day of Mera. It acts as a bond for indigenous peoples. The day started with rituals aimed at bringing peace and prosperity to the region. Titular king Leishemba Sanajaoba led a procession from the Royal Palace to the fort. Participants performed traditional rites including Mera Men Tongba, Mera Yenkhong Tamba, and the lighting of the Mera Thaomei Thanba lamp. The afternoon wrapped up with gift exchanges, dance shows, and the release of a commemorative souvenir.
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