What is Happening at the Shirui Lily Festival in Manipur?
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Synopsis
The Shirui Lily Festival has returned to Manipur after a significant hiatus due to ethnic unrest. Amidst heightened security, the event seeks to celebrate the state's unique floral heritage while highlighting the need for peace and unity among its diverse communities.
Key Takeaways
- Shirui Lily Festival is a celebration of the state flower of Manipur.
- Significant security measures were taken due to ethnic tensions.
- The event promotes cultural awareness and community unity.
- Protests highlighted issues surrounding press freedom and media rights.
- Festival serves as a platform for various communities to engage and collaborate.
Imphal, May 20 (NationPress) The Shirui Lily Festival, a five-day celebration, commenced in the Ukhrul district of Manipur on Tuesday, all under stringent security measures. This year marks the festival's return after the ethnic violence that erupted in the state in May 2023, organized by the Manipur Tourism Department.
The opening ceremony took place at Heritage Ground in Vangayan village, attended by Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla.
A media team traveling from the state capital to report on the festival's inauguration was turned back to Imphal after some security personnel allegedly obstructed their bus at Gwaltabi in Imphal East district.
In response to this incident, the All Manipur Working Journalists Union (AMWJU) and the Editors Guild Manipur (EGM) announced a 'pen down strike' on Wednesday (May 21), demanding action against the individuals responsible.
In their joint correspondence to the Governor, they claimed that security personnel ordered the media team to conceal the phrase “Manipur State Transport Corporation” displayed on the front of their bus, which carried 20 journalists and some officials from the Information Department.
“This directive raised concerns among media professionals, who questioned the rationale behind obscuring a state government identifier while operating within its bounds,” the letter stated.
The incident sparked significant outrage among the Meitei community in the valley region, prompting several organizations to hold protest rallies in the capital.
Various leaders and organizations, including the Opposition Congress, the Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI), Congress Lok Sabha member Angomcha Bimol Akoijam, and BJP’s Rajya Sabha member Maharaja Sanajaoba Leishemba, voiced their opposition to the incident.
Congress Spokesperson Ningombam Bupenda Meitei expressed serious concern regarding the failure of both the state and Union governments to ensure the free movement of citizens throughout Manipur since May 3, 2023.
“We urge the Central government under Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Governor of Manipur, currently under President’s Rule, to uphold the Constitution and guarantee the free movement of all in the state,” the spokesperson stated.
In anticipation of the festival, the Manipur government implemented extensive security measures due to threats reported from certain individuals and organizations against the Meitei community regarding entry into Kuki tribal-dominated areas during the Shirui Lily Festival.
Nonetheless, the Kuki-Zo Council (KZC), the leading body of the Kuki-Zo-Hmar tribal community, distanced itself from the ‘Kuki Zo Village Volunteers Eastern Zone’ warning directed at the Meitei community.
The Shirui Lily Festival, primarily organized by the Meitei community, honors the state flower, the Shirui Lily.
This celebration underscores the ecological significance of the Shirui Lily, a rare and endangered flower found exclusively in Manipur, occurring during its peak blooming season.
Shirui lilies flourish atop the Shirui hills in Ukhrul district and cannot be replanted elsewhere in the world, filling the air with their delightful fragrance during blooming.
The festival aims to raise awareness and promote conservation of the endangered state flower while providing a platform for various communities and tribes to unite, explore the beautiful Ukhrul district, and gain insights into the Tangkhul Naga tribe residing there.
Point of View
We recognize the significance of the Shirui Lily Festival in promoting cultural heritage and community cohesion. The challenges faced during this year's festival highlight the pressing need for dialogue and understanding among diverse groups in Manipur. It is essential to uphold democratic values and ensure that events celebrating unity can proceed without hindrance.
NationPress
27/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Shirui Lily Festival?
The Shirui Lily Festival is a celebration of the Shirui Lily, the state flower of Manipur, held annually to promote awareness and conservation of this endangered species.
Why was there tight security during the festival?
Heightened security measures were implemented due to reported threats to the Meitei community, ensuring the safety of all participants and attendees.
What prompted protests during the festival?
Protests arose following an incident where a media team was obstructed by security personnel, raising concerns about press freedom and the treatment of journalists.
Who organized the Shirui Lily Festival?
The festival is organized by the Manipur Tourism Department, aimed at celebrating the cultural heritage of the local communities.
What is the significance of the Shirui Lily flower?
The Shirui Lily is a rare and endangered flower that grows exclusively in Manipur, symbolizing the ecological richness of the region.
