Manipur's premier cultural extravaganza, the Sangai Festival, drew to a spectacular close on Sunday, marking the end of its ten-day celebration of the state's rich heritage. The grand finale was held at the Bhagyachandra Open Air Theatre in Imphal, featuring a captivating performance by artistes from the Government Dance College.
A Festival Celebrating Resilience and Unity
The closing ceremony of the 12th edition was graced by the presence of Manipur Governor, Ajay Kumar Bhalla. In his address, the Governor emphasised the cultural and economic significance of the festival. He praised its successful organisation "despite challenging times," underscoring the resilience of the Manipuri people. Governor Bhalla reiterated the state government's commitment to strengthening tourism through improved infrastructure, better connectivity, and other developmental initiatives aimed at establishing Manipur as a top cultural tourism destination.
Diverse Events Draw Widespread Participation
Held under the theme 'Festival of Oneness', this year's event attracted visitors from across several Indian states, reflecting its growing national appeal. The celebrations spanned multiple key locations, including Imphal and Moirang, over the 10-day period. Each venue highlighted distinct facets of Manipuri culture, from classical and folk art forms to local cuisines, traditional crafts, and music.
The festival's diversity was showcased through a packed schedule that included:
- A vibrant music festival
- A dedicated film festival
- The prestigious Manipur Polo International Tournament
- A host of other events displaying the state's versatility
From Cultural Initiative to Tourism Cornerstone
The festival derives its name from the Sangai, Manipur's state animal. The Sangai is an endangered brow-antlered deer found exclusively in the state's Keibul Lamjao National Park. What began as an initiative to promote Manipur's art and culture to a broader audience has now evolved into a major cultural tourism event for the entire Northeast region.
As the curtains fell on this successful edition, the Sangai Festival once again reaffirmed its vital role in celebrating unity, preserving heritage, and fostering immense cultural pride in Manipur. It stands as a powerful testament to the state's unique identity and its potential as a hub for cultural explorers.
