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HISTORY,
LEGENDS & MYTHOLOGY
Manipuris still celebrate ascension of the 33 AD King
Imphal:
Among the North Eastern states Manipur is known
for its rich art, culture and festivities. One unique
festival of the state that helps integrate Society
and celebrates communal harmony is 'Mera Hou Chongba'.
The Mera Hou Chongba is celebrated throughout the
state. However the main centre of the festivity has
always been the Sana Konung or the Royal Palace. The
function is presided over by the titular king Leishemba
Sanajaoba. Mera Hou Chongba is considered to be the
oldest festival of the World being celebrated since
33 AD. The festival started with the ascension of
Manipuri king Nonda Lairen Pakhangb to the throne.
Village chiefs from different parts of the state come
to this ancient palace. During the festival hills
and plain people exchange gifts, thereby renewing
the historical bond. "The significance of this function
lies in building communal harmony among different
ethnic groups, and present the rich cultural heritage
of Manipur," said L Babloo Singh, Organising Secretary.
"We celebrate this function to bring communal harmony
among people by bringing understanding about our rich
cultural heritage. We have so many similarities, particularly
in our joys, customs and different things," he said.
On this occasion all the village heads and representatives
of different tribal groups sit with the titular king
on the same platform. These images belie the recent
tensions among different ethnic groups. "The coming
together of the different tribal groups show that
the people of all sections want peace and harmony,
and distrust those who disturbing the peace," said
Singh. "The scenes like this reinforce the pluralistic
image of the state," he added. "To celebrate this
festival women from all twenty-nine tribes of the
state sing in one voice, one song, expressing one
thought and one feeling- the feeling of togetherness,
and it is this feeling that defines the spirit of
Manipur," claimed Singh. It gives Manipur a unique
entity - a state steeped in tradition, yet expressing
a radically modern feeling.
-Nov
4, 2005
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