RPF greets on Mera Hou Chongba
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, October 28 2012:
The proscribed RPF/PLA has greeted all the people of Manipur on the auspicious occasion of Mere Hou Chongba.
Pointing out that Mera Hou Chongba is a very important traditional festival of Manipur which is celebrated jointly by hill and plain people, the outfit in a statement issued by its Publicity Secretary T Leisemba, asserted that sporting activities are inseparable parts of the festival.
It is this age-old legacy of sporting tradition which enable Manipuri players excel in
international competitions.
One inherent message of Mera Hou Chongba festival is reinforcing the bond of fraternity among all indigenous communities of Manipur.
It was unity among the people which successively defended Manipur against waves after waves of invasion from neighbouring nations.
However, following adoption of Hinduism as State religion which was subsequently enforced upon the valley people, the hill people were segregated by the kings.
Such attitude of the kings was abhorred by the hill people and they started skipping many national events and functions which were celebrated by the hill and plain people.
Subsequently, the festival faded into oblivion for decades before it was revived once again by people who treasure unique traditions and culture of the land.
If the people examine the essence and significance of the festival, it would not be hard to understand the bond of love and fraternity shared among the indigenous people of Manipur.
The festival is a clear reminder that all the people of people belong to the same racial stock and origin, the outfit asserted.
On the occasion of Mera Hou Chongba, RPF called upon all the people to pledge collectively to fight together for their rights and dignity.