Stage set for Hiyang Kumhei
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, October 04 2013 :
Preparation has been made for the grand and historic Hiyang Kumhei (Boat race) on Oct 16 at Wangkhei Thangapat from this year ahead of the Mera Houchongba festival.
Speaking to reporters today at Sana Konung, Programme Convenor of Mera Houchongba Thousil Lup, Pukhrihongbam Araba said Mera Houchongba is a significant festival where hill and plain people come together for the grand event.
This event was, in olden days precisely during the reign of Maharaj Budhachandra, known as 'Hiyang Tannaba,' he said.
The significant event (Palace Boat race) would be revived from this year, he said.
The event would be held on Oct 16 at Wangkhei Thangapat which will be followed by customary Mera Houchongba celebration on Oct 18, P Araba said.
A boat race between a team led by Manipuri digital film actors RK Kaiku, Rojesh Saikhom and social activist Mongjam Poireihenba on one side and Thangmang Haokip chief of Sangkong village and Chandrajit on the other side would be witnessed during the occasion.
The boats for the race would be made by Heisnam Parijat of Bishnupur district.
Four wooden boats constructed at the cost of Rs 8 lakh would be used during the Hiyang festival.
This is the first time such event is being organised during the period of titular king Leishemba Sanajaoba.
Speaking at the occasion, Convenor of Mera Houchongba Thousil Lup, Mutum Churamani said the Hiyang Kumhei has been revived after a long gap.
History has it that people from the hill participated in the Hiyang event in 1780 as a part of Mera Houchongba festival.
He said the event assumes significance as the race is included as a sporting event in the international sporting arena.
He urged all concerned to participate in the common customary festival, Mera Houchongba that provides the foundation for hill-valley emotional integrity.