Significance of Manipur Sangai Festival

Md Lukaman Yumkhaibam *

At the main venue, Hapta Kangjeibung at Manipur Sangai Tourism Festival 2013 :: Pix - Jinendra Maibam

Surrounded on all sides by ranges of enchanting hills and gifted with a healthy climate and bounty of beautiful scenery, Manipur is nick-named as 'A little Paradise on Earth', 'A Flower on the lofty Heights', etc. Indeed, this little State on the eastern border of India has much to offer to a tourist.

Manipur Sangai Festival is, no doubt, the largest tourism festival of Manipur organized by the Tourism Department, Government of Manipur. It is meant to develop tourism industry along with various other aspects in the State. Every year, it is held from November 21-30 at Hapta Kangjeibung, Imphal with a grand and magnificent celebration designed to expose Manipur, the land of jewel, in the map of world tourism. The festival's popularity has increased day by day in Manipur and outside. Enjoying such a festival gives recreation to the people living in a turmoil State like Manipur.

Firstly, the significance of Manipur Sangai Festival lies in the fact that it helps to promote both domestic and international tourism. Manipur, a land endowed with nature's bountiful gift is exposed at the tourism map of the world. It plays a key role in attracting many tourists from other States of India as well as from foreign countries like Myanmar, Thailand, Bangladesh, China, etc. It not only helps us earn foreign exchange but also generates employment and enhances the standard of living of the people. Consequently, it helps to promote the economy of the State.

The rich cultural heritage of Manipur is shown at different cultural programmes organised as a part of this festival. The largest exhibition of handloom and handicraft products which are in high demand at the world market is done at various stalls put up for sale at this festival. Many varieties of indigenous food items are also exposed.

It is a boon to realize 'India Look East Policy' that seeks to reduce the long economic isolation of the north eastern region promoting trade with South East Asian countries. The festival also brings intimate relationship between the Meitei community of Maynmar with the Manipuris. It thus strengthens peace efforts towards promotion national integration and international understanding.

Many eco-adventure activities and indigenous sports of Manipur like Sagol Kangjei, Pana Kangje, etc, are made alive through this festival. The 7th Manipur Polo International, 2013 is organized by the Manipur Horse Riding and Polo Association with the objective to promote the game and the Manipuri Pony, a rare variety of equine found only in the State.

Over and above, the India Team A Manipur and India Team B, polo teams from USA, Thailand and Germany participate in it. Organizing such polo tournament reminds the people and the government to strive hard to preserve such symbolic animal which has been associated with the game of Polo in the State since time immemorial.

In short, Manipur Sangai Festival is the largest tourism event of Manipur showcasing the rich cultural heritage, indigenous food, handloom and handicraft products and eco-adventure activities. So, the need of the hour is to make every possible effort with a sense of dedication to develop the prospects of tourism in this little paradise on earth.