Manipur’s premier cultural and tourism showcase — the 12th edition of the Manipur Sangai Festival — was inaugurated this evening at Hapta Kangjeibung, marking its much-anticipated return after a two-year break.
Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla, accompanied by the First Lady, formally opened the festival before touring the grounds to interact with exhibitors and performers.
The inauguration drew artists, entrepreneurs, dignitaries, and thousands of visitors eager to experience Manipur’s cultural diversity, craftsmanship, cuisine, and tourism offerings.
A Grand Opening After a Two-Year Pause
During the ceremony, Governor Bhalla highlighted the festival’s role in celebrating Manipur’s identity, welcoming tourists, and promoting the State’s unique artistic and ecological assets.
He noted that the Sangai Festival remains a flagship platform to showcase:
Indigenous performing arts
Local handloom and handicrafts
Adventure and eco-tourism potential
Culinary heritage
The iconic Sangai deer, Manipur’s State animal and the symbol of the festival
His brief address underscored the State’s commitment to reviving cultural events that bring communities together and attract wider national and international audiences.
Festival Grounds Come Alive
After the formal inauguration, the Governor and First Lady toured the festival pavilions — pausing at handloom clusters, food courts, tourism stalls, and performance zones.
Visitors were treated to:
Classical and folk dance performances
Live music and theatre
Artisan demonstrations
Handloom showcases
Culinary stalls representing Manipur’s districts
The atmosphere at Hatta Kangjeibung buzzed with colour and footfall as families, tourists, and students explored the festival’s expansive layout.
A Festival of Heritage, Diversity and Opportunity
The Sangai Festival has long served as a bridge connecting tradition with modern entrepreneurial energy.
For artisans and entrepreneurs, the festival is a major opportunity to network with buyers, exhibit new products, and build market linkages.
With the festival returning after a two-year gap, expectations are high for increased visitor turnout and stronger engagement with India’s broader tourism and creative sectors.
Looking Ahead
Spread across multiple venues and showcasing a packed calendar of cultural, sporting, and tourism activities, the 12th edition promises to be one of the most dynamic in recent years.
As the Governor’s tour concluded, performers readied themselves for the evening’s headline acts — setting the tone for a week of celebration rooted in heritage and community pride.