Governor Uikey, CM Biren greet on Mera Houchongba
Source: Chronicle News Service
Imphal, October 14 2023:
Governor Anusuiya Uikey has greeted the people of the state on the occasion of Mera Houchongba.
In her message, Uikey said: "Mera Houchongba is a traditional festival of Mera Chaoren Houba, a festival for preserving and promoting unity and integrity amongst all communities settled in Manipur and is celebrated on the advent of Mera-tha (September-October) .
This festival through the ages has withstood the test of time and in recent years has become a rallying point for the state's unity and integrity" .
She also appealed that the festival be celebrated in true spirit, upholding the tradition of peaceful co-existence of state's pluralistic society.
In his wish, CM Biren stated that Mera Chaoren Houba is a traditional festival heralding the advent of Mera Tha, the seventh month in the Meitei Lunar Calendar.
"The festival is celebrated to preserve and promote unity amongst all communities and march towards a more harmonious, peaceful and prosperous Manipur.
Today, our state is witnessing a tough phase, with vested interest groups attempting to incite feelings of ill-will and enmity amongst various communities" .
"As we believe that the month of Mera brings back the age-old tradition of love and brotherhood between the hill and valley people residing together in the state, the festival holds much significance now.
Many have suffered irreparable losses in this conflict.
No amount of compensation can console these losses.
Yet, prolonging this state of chaos, can only bring us more sorrow.
It is therefore time to join hands and work for peace and reconciliation," he said.
The CM further conveyed, "We must work together to rebuild our homes and our lives and for everyone who have suffered more than each one of us.
Let the tradition of sharing and exchange of gifts on this day serve to rebuild the bonds among different communities.
Let us pray that the strength of humanity and our capacity to forgive, open for us, a new chapter for the state" .