Sirarakhong Chilli Fest begins
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, September 16 2025: The 14th Sirarakhong Hathei Chilli Festival began at Sirarakhong village, Ukhrul district today.

The festival under the theme "Heritage of Blessings" will continue till September 18 .

Khankhan's Artifact Collection House - that has on display a collection of century-old artefacts - was also inaugurated during the launch of the festival.

Thaithuilung Pamei, Commissioner, Horticulture & Sericulture inaugurated the festival in absence of Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla, who couldn't attend due to inclement weather.

The event, a vibrant celebration of the world-renowned Sirarakhong Hathei Chilli, known for its unique aroma and flavour, brought together Ukhrul communities, farmers and Government authorities to promote agricultural heritage, environmental sustainability, and National development initiatives.

Sword Vashum, president, Tangkhul Naga Long; Ngamreiwung Luithui, SDO LM Block; V Wungkhayap Zimik, Headman of Sirarakhong; K Wungchan, renowned singer; and community leaders attended the launch of the festival.

Addressing the opening of the festival, T Pamei commended the farmers of Sirarakhong for their dedication towards preserving the unique Hathei Chilli, a symbol of the region's agricultural excellence.

He urged the youths to draw inspiration from the perseverance and hard work of their elders, and emphasised on the importance of sustaining traditional farming practices while embracing modern technologies.

The inaugural day featured a wide range of activities, including a ceremonial flag hoisting, vibrant cultural performances showcasing the rich heritage of the region, a buyers-sellers meet to foster economic opportunities for local farmers, and a tree plantation drive under the Nationwide initiative "Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam".

Additionally, a photo exhibition was organised by the Central Bureau of Communication (CBC), Regional Office Imphal, in collaboration with Sirarakhong village, highlighting flagship themes of the Government of India such as "Viksit Bharat 2047 - Seva, Sushasan, Garib Kalyan Ke 11 Saal" .

The famed Sirarakhong Hathei, prized for its unique colour and aroma, received the Geographical Indication (GI) tag in 2021.Hathei chilli remains the very foundation of livelihood for Sirarakhong villagers, symbolising hope, prosperity, and cultural continuity.

Coinciding with the festival, the Khankhan's Artifact Collection House was inaugurated in collaboration with INA War Museum-cum-Library, Moirang and the Department of Art and Culture, Government of Manipur.

The house has a collection of century-old traditional shawls, rare artefacts including household items, once used by Tangkhul ancestors.

Wartime relics, including "Mickey Mouse money" from World War-II and artefacts left behind by the Japanese Army are on display.

The initiative is being led by Ringkhanring V Zimik, fondly known as Akhan or Khankhan, a princess of Sirarakhong who has devoted herself to preserving heirlooms inherited from her father.

"I would really like to set up a proper museum for the relics.

Some of them are fragile and may decay or break if repeatedly moved around.

Preserving them in one place will protect our heritage.

Even if not everyone understands their value, I know this is a treasure that keeps our tradition and history alive," said Khankhan.

The collection will remain on display during the Hathei Festival for visitors to rediscover the village's history.

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