RPF conveys Mera Houchongba greetings
Source: Hueiyen News Service
Imphal, October 09 2011:
Revolutionary People's Front (RPF) and its armed wing, PLA have conveyed greetings to the people on the occasion of Mera Houchongba which falls on the coming 15th day of Mera.
In a statement, secretary publicity of the outfit T Leisemba observed that Mera Houchongba is a festival that reaffirms the bond of unity among all the communities living in Manipur since time immemorial.
Even though this bond of unity among the communities seemed to have come lose for sometimes on account of the divisive policies of the enemy, the relationship has been renewed today.
On the genesis of the festival, Leisemba said that celebration of Mera Houchongba was started during the reign of Meidingoo Nongda Lairen Pakhangba as the king of Meitrabak in 1398 Maliafam Cheichat (Mc) and continued till the time of Maharaj Kulachandra (1890-1891) .
After this, the festival started losing its significance following strong influence from the west.
Along with this, efforts were made to drive wedge among the people after Manipur came under Indian rule in 1949 and AFSPA was imposed to wipe out Manipuri society.
Fortunately, people have realized the cause of their suffering and the importance of unity, Leisemba observed.
It is but natural for the colonialist to make all out efforts to eliminated the subjugated people.
So, the present generations should carry out their duties towards restoration of the lost sovereignty, Leisemba exhorted, while calling upon all the communities to renew their pledge of brotherhood and strengthen the bond of unity.