Ukhrul, May 20: Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla on Tuesday inaugurated the 5th state-level Shirui Lily Festival at Heritage Ground of Shirui village in Ukhrul district after a gap of two years. He urged all to work for harmonious and peaceful living among all sections of society.

The five-day festival showcases cultural events, games, music and food of Manipur state in general and those of the Tangkhul Naga tribe.

It could not be held in the past two years because of ethnic violence between Meiteis and Kukis, which left at least 260 people dead and thousands homeless since May 2023. Crackdown on Militants in Manipur: 9 Extremists From Various Banned Outfits Arrested From Different Districts in Trouble-Torn State.

Addressing the gathering at the inaugural ceremony, the governor said that Shirui Lily festival is a tribute to the magnificent State Flower of Shirui Lily.

The rare plant is a living symbol of Manipur's ecological wealth and natural heritage, he said. Bhalla described Shirui Lily as more than a botanical treasure, as it symbolises resilience, uniqueness, and ecological balance. Protests in Manipur After Security Forces Cover State's Name on Govt Bus Carrying Journalists.

Manipur Governor Inaugurates Shirui Lily Festival

The festival serves as a collective reminder to protect this endangered species while celebrating the vibrant Tangkhul Naga culture through traditional dances, music, crafts, and local cuisines, uniting people from all walks of life. Describing Ukhrul as the crown jewel of Manipur's hill districts, the governor said it is a new beginning for the festival, being held after a gap of two years.

"We have the intent of promoting this festival all across the country and abroad," he said. Bhalla said, "The people need to forget smaller things and work for a harmonious and peaceful living among all sections of society."

(The above story is verified and authored by Press Trust of India (PTI) staff. PTI, India’s premier news agency, employs more than 400 journalists and 500 stringers to cover almost every district and small town in India.. The views appearing in the above post do not reflect the opinions of LatestLY)