PM, Governor, CM, MP greet
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, March 28 2017:
On the eve of the lunar year festival Sajibu Nongma Panba Cheiraoba, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Manipur Governor Dr Najma Heptulla and Chief Minister Nongthombam Biren Singh have greeted the people of Manipur.
"Sajibu Cheiraoba wishes to my brothers and sisters in Manipur.
Have a cheerful and harmonious year ahead," Modi said in a tweet.
Manipur Governor in her message said, "My heartiest greetings to the people of Manipur on the auspicious occasion of Sajibu Nongma Panba Cheiraoba, the Manipuri New Year's Day." New Year is an occasion to rejoice and for setting new resolutions, Dr Heptulla said, adding "On this occasion, let us all make Cheiraoba, 2017 a harbinger of peace and harmony in the State" .
Chief Minister Biren Singh said Sajibu Nongma Panba festival heralds the advent of the New Year and is celebrated with religious fervour and gaiety.
"The festival strengthens the bond of love and brotherhood among the members of each family in particular and among the fellow members in the neighbourhood in general" .
The Meitei people who follow Sanamahi religion celebrate the Sajibu Cheiraoba with great fanfare.
The day begins with ritual offerings of fruits, vegetables, rice and other uncooked food items to the Meitei deity Lainingthou Sanamahi during the early morning of the festival.
Inner Manipur MP, Dr Thokchom Meinya also extended his best wishes to the people on the occasion of Sajibu Nongmapanba Cheiraoba and wished that the festival ushers in peace, harmony and prosperity in the State.
He further stated that Sajibu Cheiraoba is an important festival of the Meities and signifies the beginning of a new year and added that the festival touches all aspect of life with its essence.