Cheiraoba Celebration by Manipuri Community in South Korea
- 05th April, 2025 :: Korea Manipuri Association (KMA) -

*

Cheiraoba Celebration by Manipuri Community in South Korea

IN A WISTFUL LONGING, KOREA MANIPURI CELEBRATES CHEIRAOBA FOR THE YEAR

In a wistful longing for a time when Manipur was a powerful and peaceful kingdom in Northeast India-proudly known as a land of culture and sporting excellence-Manipuris living in South Korea came together to celebrate Cheiraoba, the Lunar New Year as per the traditional calendar of the once-beautiful kingdom.

This year's Cheiraoba celebration took place at a large pension house in the suburbs of Anseong City-popularly called the City of Masters-located about 80 km south of Seoul. On the chosen Saturday, 5th April 2025, Manipuris from across South Korea made their way to the venue.

Some, living in the far south of the country, took early morning trains, while others drove for 4–5 hours, their hearts filled with excitement and the joyful anticipation of reuniting with fellow Manipuris and celebrating the timeless, beautiful tradition of Cheiraoba.

Arriving at the pension house in the afternoon of the auspicious day, preparations began immediately for the special Manipuri cuisines made exclusively for Cheiraoba: Yongchak Eromba, Nga Thongba, Bora, Chamfut, Singu, and more.

Racing against time, everyone-young and old, men, women, boys, and girls-rolled up their sleeves and enthusiastically joined hands in preparing the dishes and performing the Cheiraoba offering prayers to our ancestors before dusk.

Cheiraoba Celebration by Manipuri Community in South Korea

As a cherished tradition, Peba gift and blessing exchanges were joyfully carried out among all attending Pebas and beloved Ningols. The spirit of brotherhood and sisterhood was further highlighted by inviting guests from other Indian states who share a warm rapport with the Manipuri community. They were treated to authentic Manipuri cuisines-an unforgettable experience for their taste buds and souls alike.

The celebration was more than just a festival. It was a reaffirmation of identity, unity, and pride. The spirit of togetherness and the commitment to preserving our rich culture is deeply rooted in every Manipuri's heart-just as strong as the love for the geographical integrity of our homeland, Ema gi Manipur-no matter how many years or decades one has been away.

For all Manipuris living in South Korea-this was a heartfelt tribute to our roots, our culture, and to our beloved land-Ema Manipur Yaifarasi!

Dr. Bobby Soram
President, KMA South Korea

See a full photo gallery of this event here