Stage set for Mera Houchongba
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, September 30 2011:
Like in the past many years Ethno Heritage Council (Hericoun) has begun preparation for successful conduct of the Mera houchongba festival which falls on October 12 this year.
Speaking to newspersons at its Nongmeibung Nambam Chuthek office, Hericoun convenor M Churamani said apart from cultural extravaganza on the day, a five day Festive Fair will be organised at Palace Compound Iboyaima Shanglen where handicraft and handloom products of all the communities would be put on display.
to facilitate smooth and successful conduct of the festival and ensure maximum participation, Churamani made a fervent appealed to all concerned to abstain from imposing bandh or blockade as well as relax for the day all sorts of agitation in case such a movement is underway.
He also informed that the Festival Fair is being organised for the last five years with the approval and patronage of the State's Industries Department.
While highlighting that Mera Houchongba festival had been a regular event since ages, he also maintained that Hericoun revived the festival in 2002 .
With regard to the forthcoming festival, he said delegates from the hill districts would arrive on October 11 evening and stay at Khuman Lampak Youth Hostel till the event concludes.
Apart from a formal reception by the titular king Leishemba Sanajaoba, the hill delegates a Shumang Leela play will be staged for the delegates and cultural troupes on the same evening.
Prevailing upon all concerned that the festival celebrated since the time immemorial is to foster fraternal relationships between the hill and valley people, Churamani reiterated the appeal for cooperation by every section of the society to ensure successful conduct of the festival.
Rituals related to the festival would be performed inside the historic Kangla Fort.