Chothe community marks pre-harvest festival "Shabu Hong Reen 2025"
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, October 21 2025: The Chothe community, one of the indigenous groups of Manipur, celebrated the 13th Shabu Hong Reen (Pre-Harvest Festival 2025) at Purum Khullen (Chothe Hongpi) in Chandel district with much traditional fervour and enthusiasm.

The event was attended by Khungphom's Heritage Society as special guest, Chothe Lim Abom Manipur (CLAM), Chothe Chiefs Association (CCA), Chothe Athourol Nanngei Abom (CANA) as special invitees, and the chief of Purum Khullen Ansaithem Chothe and convenor of the Festival, Jacob Thaokong, presiding over the function.

Delivering the keynote address, Jacob Thaokung convenor of the festival emphasized that the Chothe community , which has its own Yek Salai and is primarily settled across 20 villages of Manipur, possesses a distinct and unique cultural heritage.

However, he lamented that with the advent of Christianity, many of the old-age customs and traditions of the community have gradually faded.

He highlighted the importance of reviving and preserving these unique customs and traditions among the younger generations, stating that festivals like 'Shabu Hong Reen' serve as vital platforms for cultural continuity.

As part of the celebration, various traditional rituals such as Arte Tlah-Saan, Satin-Waat and Shabu Huup and foretelling of good and bad omens of the village were performed.

The festivities also featured cultural dances and modem folk songs presented by the villagers, adding colour and joy to the occasion.

The annual celebration reaffirmed the Chothe community's enduring commitment to safeguarding its rich cultural identity while fostering unity and togetherness among its people.

Comment