Imphal:
Manipur’s Meitei community commenced their five-day celebration of Yaoshang, known as Holi in the state, by burning straw huts constructed at the Shri Govindaji temple complex and a few other locations. Yaoshang is one of the most significant festivals for Manipur’s Meitei community.
Due to ongoing ethnic tensions, the festival of colors has been limited to religious and community sports activities associated with the carnival.
A gathering of people marked the occasion in the Mantripukhri area, where festivities began with traditional rituals and music. However, due to law and order concerns, civil society groups refrained from organizing amusement and entertainment events, including cultural dances.
A Meitei priest mentioned that, apart from the ethnic violence, thousands of people displaced from their homes and villages since May 2023 and residing in relief camps are unable to organize festival-related events.
Manipur is renowned for its diverse sports and cultural activities. Here, Holi is not just celebrated by playing with colors but also by organizing sporting events across the state.
#WATCH | Imphal, Manipur | The five-day Yaosang festival kicks off in Imphal as devotees gather for Holika Dahan at the Shree Shree Govindajee Temple in Imphal East District.
pic.twitter.com/wmPxjOOoaH— ANI (@ANI)
March 14, 2025
During Manipur’s unique Holi (Yaoshang), local clubs and communities organize sports meets across various parts of the state, creating an action-packed and joyous festival. However, all these activities are being conducted on a subdued scale due to the prevailing circumstances.
The sports meets feature a wide range of games, including full marathons, half marathons, athletics, football matches, and indoor games.
Participants range from young children to senior citizens, fostering a lively and competitive atmosphere. During Yaoshang, children go door-to-door in their neighborhoods, offering blessings to adults and receiving money in return.
Former Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh made his first public appearance after his resignation on February 9 to greet people on Yaoshang.
“Heartiest greetings to the people of Manipur on the joyous occasion of Yaoshang. This festival of colors and harmony symbolizes unity, joy, and the rich cultural heritage of our state. May the celebrations bring happiness, good health, and prosperity to all. Wishing everyone a safe and blessed Yaoshang,” he said in a post on X.
The ‘Yaoshang Mei Thaba’ ceremony at my residence today was a beautiful reminder of the light that unites us. The flames symbolize the victory of good over evil, filling the air with hope and celebration.
Thankful to everyone who joined in, making the evening even more special….
pic.twitter.com/VdxzfRAyZp— N. Biren Singh (@NBirenSingh)
March 14, 2025
Mr. Singh participated in the celebrations by lighting the traditional Holi pyre, a significant event that marks the beginning of the festival in the state.
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