Manipur Observes Mera Hou Chongba With Traditional Fervour Despite Security Concerns; What Is The Festival About?
Manipur has celebrated Mera Hou Chongba at the historic Kangla Fort and Sana Konung (Royal Palace) on October 26, 2026. The traditional festival symbolises the enduring bond between the hill and valley communities. The festival was observed with traditional rituals and regional fervour, although the celebrations were relatively subdued due to the ongoing law and order concerns (AFSPA). Let's…
Manipur observed Mera Hou Chongba with traditional enthusiasm on October 26, 2026, despite security concerns. This historic cultural festival highlights the unity and bond between the hill and valley communities of the state. Celebrated at Kangla Fort and Sana Konung (Royal Palace), the day-long event featured traditional rituals like Mera Men Tongba, Mera Yenkhong Tamba, and Mera Thaomei Thanba, which involve lighting a lamp atop a bamboo pole and a bonfire on the mountaintops.
The festival, which commemorates the unity of the hill and valley communities, has its roots in the 15th lunar day of the Meitei month of Mera (falling in October). It predates the reign of Manipur's first legendary ruler, Nongda Lairen Pakhangba, in 33 AD.
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