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Time of India

Shirui Lily Festival renews hope of lasting peace in strife-torn Manipur

1 2 Guwahati: The Shirui Lily Festival recommenced in Manipur on Tuesday following a two-year interruption caused by ethnic unrest. The event celebrated two peaceful days at Ukhrul venues, commemorating 75 years since the state flower's recognition. The organisers remain optimistic that this grand celebration will elevate Manipur's position in global tourism , with Shirui Hills emerging as a primary attraction. The festival, which showcases cultural heritage , traditional arts and literature amidst natural surroundings, has brought renewed optimism to the conflict-affected state. By welcoming all communities, the Shirui Festival is promoting unity and harmony, aiming to restore Manipur's positive reputation on the global stage. The fifth edition's second day witnessed the launch of cultural shows and competitions, organised by the CSO Lily Festival Committee at Ukhrul Headquarter Ground on Wednesday. Horticulture commissioner Thaithuilung Pamei, the chief guest, highlighted how the festival celebrates both the flower and Ukhrul's cultural heritage, emphasising the importance of preserving ancestral customs. As part of the cultural show programme, folk dances were showcased by the Thoyee cultural troupe representing Aze Longphang, and the Mapum dance troupe representing Zingsho Longphang. Along with that, various performances such as tug of war and others were witnessed. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Use an AI Writing Tool That Actually Understands Your Voice Grammarly Install Now Undo The first day of the cultural extravaganza also hosted competitions such as Sao Katak, Saotheila and Javelin Throw. The Shirui Lily Literature Festival inaugural session on Wednesday was attended by students, educators, and readers from the community. Notable presence included Ashish Das, deputy commissioner, Ukhrul. Organiser Chingrimi A Shimray stressed the importance of indigenous storytelling, while tourism director Pooja Elangbam emphasised reading's role in fostering empathy. In the keynote speech by the organising team, Chingrimi A Shimray addressed the need to promote a culture of reading and curiosity, calling for more indigenous storytellers to tell more stories, as stories are medicines that can heal communities. Pooja Elangbam, director of tourism, Manipur, called for more readers, as reading nurtures empathy, connection, and kindness.