Thokchom Satyabrata, the Speaker of the Manipur Legislative Assembly, now under suspended animation, and chief guest of the event, urged communities to unite and explore self-reliant models for the famed festival.
TFM Report
Under the picturesque Shirui Peak, an air of hope lingered as Manipur’s political and community leaders gathered at the Heritage Centre in Vangayan, Shirui, on Thursday to celebrate the cultural day of Shirui Village. Themed “Day of Peace, Harmony, and Unity,” the event became a poignant platform for envisioning a future where Manipur’s iconic Shirui Lily Festival could flourish without government funding, while reigniting calls to heal the fractured state.
A Vision for Self-Sustained Celebrations
Thokchom Satyabrata, the Speaker of the Manipur Legislative Assembly (under suspended animation) and chief guest of the event, struck a resonant chord by urging communities to unite and explore self-reliant models for the famed festival. “The Shirui Lily is not just a flower—it’s a symbol of our identity,” he declared.
“By pooling local resources and talents, we can celebrate our heritage without depending on external funds. But this begins with peace.” His remarks echoed through the crowd, underscoring the urgency of restoring stability in Manipur, which has grappled with prolonged tensions in the hills and the valley.
Accompanied by dignitaries including Thokchom Radheshyam, Luorempam Rameshwar, and Sheikh Noorul Hassan, Satyabrata emphasized collaboration. “When communities lead, traditions thrive,” he added, sparking applause.
Reflections on Responsibility and Change
Thokchom Radheshyam, another politician and MLA of Heirok A/C, Former Cabinet Minister Education, Labour & Employment, who attended the event in a soul-stirring address, lamented the shattered aspirations of Manipur’s youth. “Nothing is permanent except change,” he asserted. “Yet, we’ve failed our younger generation. It’s “our collective duty to rebuild their faith.” Radheshyam framed the festival as a bridge to reconnect Manipur’s diverse populace, urging introspection: “Let this event remind us that a strong, united Manipur isn’t a dream—it’s a responsibility. Peace cannot wait.”
Breaking Walls of Mistrust
Sheikh Noorul Hassan, MLA Khstrigao A/C & Legislature Leader National People’s Party & Working President NPP, Manipur, echoing the theme, championed coexistence. “Our strength lies in unity,” he proclaimed. “Mistrust has divided us for too long. Let today mark the start of tearing down those walls.” His words resonated as attendees—representing Manipur’s myriad communities—nodded in agreement. “Together, we heal. Together, we *are* Manipur,” he concluded, met with thunderous cheers.
Cultural Vibrancy Steals the Spotlight
The festival’s heartbeat pulsed through the Shirui Lily Grand Prix, where the indigenous *“thing-gari”* race—a traditional cart competition—captivated spectators at the foothills of Shirui Peak. Laughter and cheers erupted as teams navigated the rugged terrain, blending sport with cultural pride.
Later, melodies from Tangkhul singing legends Shimreingam Horam, Winso Chamroy, and Yuileichan Mahongnao enraptured the crowd. Their performances, steeped in the rich heritage of Manipur’s Tangkhul Naga community, transformed the evening into a tapestry of sound and solidarity.
As the event closed, the message was clear: Manipur’s path to peace and self-reliance hinges on its people. The Shirui Lily Festival, once a celebration of nature’s marvel, now stands as a metaphor for renewal—a reminder that unity, like the rare lily blooming atop its namesake peak, requires nurturing.
In the words of Satyabrata: “Let this festival be the seed from which a new Manipur grows—one rooted in harmony, watered by collective effort, and blooming with hope.” The road ahead remains steep, but for a day, Shirui Village showed the world that Manipur’s spirit remains unbroken.