Imoinu Iratpa extensively held all over
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, January 02 2015 : As celebrated in the past many years, the traditional worship of Ema Imoinu (celebrated as Imoinu Iratpa day) was extensively performed across the State amongst the Meitei community today.

One of the many celebrations that mark the State, the Imoinu Iratpa day is an invocation to Goddess Imoinu, believed to be the Goddess of wealth, through offerings of seasonal fruits, vegetables and fish to the deity.

The day is celebrated every year on the 12th day of Wakching (a month as per the Meetei lunar calendar).

Kangla Religious Committee, Kangla Fort Board, Kangla celebrated this auspicious day at the Kangla Palace, Imphal today.

The celebration commenced with performances from Pena (traditional musical instrument of the Meiteis) artistes followed by the narration of the tale of Imoinu and songs invoking the deity.

Traditional dance forms like Khamba Thoibi dance and Maibi dance were also performed during the celebration today.

Imoinu Iratpa extensively held all over

Similar celebrations were seen at Wangkhei Ningthem Pukhri Mapal, Yaingangpokpi and Yumnam Lairembi ground (organised by Poirei Ethilba Lup) .

Speaking at the celebration held at Yumnam Lairembi ground, Poirei Ethilba Lup spokesperson Nameirakpam Nilakumar said they celebrate the auspicious day at local clubs to help preserve the importance of the celebration.

The yearly celebration of the auspicious day in worship of the goddess would provide sustenance to the community, he added.

Thougal dance, Maibi dance and pena performances were presented during the celebration held here today.

Iramdam Eenat Yokhat Lup, Singjamei Leishangthem Leikai also observed the day at Youth Amateur Welfare Association ground today.

The locals, while offering flowers and vegetables to the deity, prayed for a peaceful co-existence on the occasion.

Meanwhile, Emoinu Committee, Yairipok Siphai Leikai also observed the festival at Siphai Leikai Guidance Club ground today.

The committee marked the auspicious day through prayers, offerings made to the deity and various other cultural programmes.

Nimaichand Sarangthem, during his speech at the event elaborated on the idea behind the celebration.

MI and IPR Parliamentary Secretary Keisham Meghachandra extending his greetings, has wished for peace and prosperity of the State.

Yairipok Municipal Council chairperson Sagolsem Ranjita Leima, BDO Maibam Ibotombi, dignitaries and locals also attended the celebration at Yairipok today.

Khumbong Lairembi Erat Thougallup also celebrated Imoinu Iratpa festival today at Khumbong Lairembi Laiphamlen along with a book release ceremony today.

The book titled 'Luhonglaroi' is a short story collection written by Yengkhom Indira.

Lighting of candles, colourful lights along the streets of greater Imphal and valley districts at night marked the the observation of the festival in the State.