Waree Leeba Cheirao Festival 2026 concludes at Hojai
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, April 05 2026: The 9th Waree Leeba Cheirao Festival, 2026, concluded today at Hojai Nandapur in Assam after a four-day cultural celebration that began on April 2.The festival was organised by the Repertory of Waree Leeba (ROWL), Manipur, in collaboration with its Brahmaputra Valley Branch, Hojai, Assam, with the aim of promoting and preserving the traditional art form of Waree Leeba.

The valedictory function was graced by former secretary of Assam Sahitya Parishad, Wakram Nillo Singha as chief guest.

The function was presided over by president of ROWL, Brahmaputra Valley Branch, Ksh Bishnu Singha.

Other dignitaries present included Lourembam Mani Singh, vice-president of ROWL, Brahmaputra Valley Branch and active member of the repertory, Shamurailatpam Kunjabihari Sharma, who attended as resource persons.

A total of 12 artists participated in the festival, including three Waree Leeba artists from Manipur, three from Barak Valley Branch, Cachar; six from the Brahmaputra Valley Branch, Hojai, Assam.

Certificates were distributed to all participants during the valedictory function as a mark of encouragement and recognition.

During the valedictory function, the participating artists were awarded certificates as encouragement.

Speaking on the occasion, ROWL, Manipur, Director Takhellambam Shyamkanhai Singh highlighted that the festival, which has been held across various parts of Assam over the past nine years, has successfully nurtured several new Waree Leeba artists.

However, he stressed that more dedicated efforts are still required to meet the growing expectations of people and to further strengthen the art form.

He also announced that, as part of continued efforts to promote Waree Leeba, the first North East Waree Leeba Festival, 2026, will be organised in Imphal later this year, after slight improvement of the weather conditions in the State.

The upcoming festival is expected to bring together artists from across the northeastern region.

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