Why in news?
Manipur’s annual Sangai Festival began on 21 November 2025 in Imphal under the theme “Where blossoms breathe harmony”. The ten‑day event, scheduled until 30 November, has been expanded across multiple venues to showcase the state’s cultural diversity. Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla inaugurated the festival, highlighting its role in promoting social harmony and reviving local livelihoods.
Background
The Sangai Festival, organised by the Manipur Tourism Department, is held every year from 21 to 30 November. Originally known as the Manipur Tourism Festival, it was renamed in 2010 to draw attention to the Sangai, or brow‑antlered deer (Rucervus eldii eldii), Manipur’s state animal found only in Keibul Lamjao National Park. The festival aims to position Manipur as a world‑class tourist destination by celebrating its art, handloom, handicrafts, cuisine, music, dance, indigenous sports and adventure tourism.
Highlights of the 2025 edition
- Theme and message: The theme “Where blossoms breathe harmony” underscores the need for peace and unity in a state that has witnessed recent social tensions. Organisers emphasise that cultural events can help heal divides and support internally displaced communities.
- Venues: Events are held at the Bhagyachandra Open Air Theatre, Hapta Kangjeibung, Loktak Lake and venues in Senapati, Ukhrul and Tamenglong districts. The expanded footprint ensures both valley and hill communities participate.
- Cultural showcase: Over 35 tribes and communities present traditional music, dance and theatre. There are displays of handloom textiles, bamboo and cane crafts, indigenous foods and herbal products. Sports such as Mukna Kangjei (a local form of hockey), martial arts and boat races on Loktak Lake attract crowds.
- Tourism promotion: The festival encourages visitors to explore Manipur’s natural attractions, including Loktak Lake—home to the world’s only floating national park—and the rolling hills of Senapati and Ukhrul. Adventure activities such as trekking and cycling are organised.
- Economic benefits: By providing stalls to artisans, weavers, farmers and entrepreneurs, the festival offers opportunities to sell products and establish markets beyond the state. This helps revive livelihoods impacted by unrest and the pandemic.
Historical context
Since its rebranding in 2010, the Sangai Festival has grown from a local tourism event into a nationally recognised celebration. While the festival was cancelled in 2020 and 2021 due to the pandemic, it returned in 2022 with renewed vigour. By highlighting the Sangai deer and Manipur’s cultural richness, the festival seeks to foster pride among residents and attract both domestic and international tourists.
