Celebrate Lai Haraoba after proper discussion: UKAL
Source: Chronicle News Service
Imphal, February 04 2023:
Umanglai Kanba Apunba Lup (UKAL) has called for all the shrines (Laibung) to hold/organise proper discussions before celebrating their respective Lai Haraoba festival.
In a statement released to the press on Saturday, UKAL publicity secretary Th Ratankumar Meetei referred to Rajya Sabha MP and titular king of Manipur, Leishemba Sa najaoba's ongoing discussion meetings at the shrines of the state with the Lai Thougal groups (organising committee), which has brought on many changes.
The release continued: "We are a small community compared to other communities across the globe.
Thus, there is the need for us to defend our identity from the impact of globalisation.
However, as preserving Lai Haraoba and .cultural facets alone is not enough, we also need to focus on the socio-economic and governance aspects of the state.
"In addition to becoming more aware of our origins, there is the need to moderate the behaviour of young people, while ensuring all aspects of Lai Haraoba festival such as language, worship, custom, historical connections and others are adhered to strictly.
All of these are being discussed in the meetings held at the shrines as these aspects are part of our identity," the secretary elaborated and urged all the shrines to celebrate Lai Haraoba after observing all of the above.
The release then informed that UKAL will be organising similar discussion meetings and sought the support of the respective Lai Thougal groups and the people.
As of now, the discussion meetings have been held with Ima Ireima Laibung Komlakhong, Ima Ayangleima Laibung Terapisak Hiyanglam, Ima Ireima Laibung Sekmajin Khunou and Iputhou Pureiromba Laibung Kameng Khunjao, it conveyed.