Shirui Lily festival ends amid cultural flourish
Esme SS crowned Miss Shirui Lily 2025
Source: Chronicle News Service / R Lester Makang
Ukhrul, May 24 2025:
The 5th state-level Shirui Lily Festival cum the 75th anniversary of the discovery of the Shirui Lily, the state flower of Manipur, concluded on Saturday.
The event showcased a vibrant display of the state's rich culture, traditional heritage, and musical talents.
Held at Bakshi Ground, the closing ceremony featured a captivating choreography performance by Zaishin Dance Studio.
Attendees were treated to a special song by Pam's Kindergarten, along with worship songs presented by the Jesus Heart Team.
Speeches from dignitaries added a sense of significance to the festival, reflecting on the importance of the festival in promoting preservation of the unique Shirui Lily, environment, local culture and tourism.
Later, the final day of the celebrations witnessed SHiROCK, a musical extravaganza, headlined by the renowned Bombay Vikings, alongside local bands Featherheads and Not Funny from Ukhrul.
The five-day-long festival began on May 20 at the Heritage Ground Vangayan in Shirui village.
Earlier on Friday, the Miss Shirui Lily 2025 pageant, themed "Beauty for Humanity", concluded with great fanfare at the Heritage Ground in Vangayan, Shirui village.
Esme Shaiza Singh from Ukhrul district was crowned Miss Shirui Lily 2025, with Disti Athokpam Devi from Imphal West district taking the title of 1st Runner-Up and Esther Somungla Jamang from Kamjong district as the 2nd Runner-Up.
The competition also featured seven sub-title awards, celebrating a range of talents and qualities among the contestants.
Shonchui Kazingmei was honoured as Miss Humility, reflecting her gracious nature.
Miss Graceful Walk went to Laikhuram Zeneva, who impressed the judges with her poise.
Sumi Ningshen earned the title of Miss Pheithei Pangthei, while Esmee SS was recognised as Miss Perfect Body.
Cecilia Zimik s charm secured her the title of Miss Beautiful Smile, and Themthem A Shimray showcased her skills to win Miss Talented.
Finally, Esther Somungla Jamang was named Miss Popularity, highlighting her connection with the audience and community.
Esme Shaiza Singh, the crowned winner, received a cash prize of Rs 3 lakh, while the 1st Runner-Up was awarded Rs 1 lakh and the 2nd Runner-Up received Rs 75,000.Each sub-title winner took home Rs 20,000 .