The Mera Hou Chongba 2024, an annual festival aimed at strengthening the bond between the indigenous communities of Manipur’s hills and valleys, is set to take place tomorrow in Imphal. This unique celebration brings together diverse cultural groups, fostering unity and understanding.
Venue and Preparations
The State Level Organising Committee will host the festival at the historic Manipur Royal Palace and the sacred site of Kangla. Village chiefs from various hill districts have already arrived in Imphal for the event, highlighting the significance of this occasion.
Reception Ceremony
The titular King of Manipur, Leishemba Sanajaoba, who also serves as a Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha), hosted a reception for the village chiefs, participants, and cultural troupes at the Manipur Royal Palace this evening.
Schedule of Events
The celebration will commence with traditional rituals at Kangla Uttra in the morning, including:
- Men Tongba and Yenkhong Tamba – sacred rituals performed to honor the spirits and ancestors.
- Thang Ta Salutation and Invocation by Maiba – a ceremonial dance and prayer led by traditional practitioners.
Following these rituals, there will be an exchange of gifts and various cultural performances among the indigenous communities.
Significance
Mera Hou Chongba is the only festival where both the hill and valley indigenous communities gather to celebrate together. It is recognized as a General Holiday in Manipur, underscoring its importance in the cultural fabric of the state.
Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs):
- What is the primary purpose of the Mera Hou Chongba festival?
- A) To celebrate the harvest season
- B) To strengthen the bond between indigenous communities
- C) To honor the monarchy
- D) To promote tourism in Manipur
Answer: B) To strengthen the bond between indigenous communities
- Where will the Mera Hou Chongba 2024 festival be observed?
- A) Kangla Fort
- B) Imphal Airport
- C) Manipur Royal Palace and Kangla
- D) Loktak Lake
Answer: C) Manipur Royal Palace and Kangla
- Who hosted the reception ceremony for the village chiefs and cultural troupes?
- A) The Chief Minister of Manipur
- B) Leishemba Sanajaoba, the titular King of Manipur
- C) The Governor of Manipur
- D) The President of India
Answer: B) Leishemba Sanajaoba, the titular King of Manipur
- Which rituals will take place at Kangla Uttra during the festival?
- A) Bhawaiya and Sufi songs
- B) Men Tongba and Yenkhong Tamba
- C) Classical dances from different regions
- D) Folk tales and storytelling
Answer: B) Men Tongba and Yenkhong Tamba
- What is the status of Mera Hou Chongba in Manipur?
- A) It is a regional festival celebrated only in specific districts.
- B) It is a private gathering for village chiefs.
- C) It is a General Holiday in the state.
- D) It is a festival for tourists only.
Answer: C) It is a General Holiday in the state.