Violence Marred Silence: Manipur’s Low-Key Holi Celebrations Echo Prayers for Peace from Ex-CM N Biren Singh

Imphal, Manipur, India – For the second consecutive year, the Holi festival, a significant celebration for the Meitei community in Manipur, was marked with a low-key celebration due to the ongoing ethnic violence that has rocked the state since May 2023.

The violence, which has left at least 250 people dead and thousands homeless, has cast a shadow over the festivities, which officially began on Friday evening with the burning of straw huts at Shri Govindaji temple complex and a few other locations. Devdutta Phurailatpam, a Meitei priest, attributes the low-key celebration to two primary reasons. “People, particularly internally displaced persons, are yet to return to their native places and are facing hardships. Besides, there are apprehensions of attacks by miscreants at peripheral areas of the valley during the celebrations,” he said.

The festival, which typically lasts for five days and involves children going from door to door, collecting money in exchange for blessings, has been restricted to religious activities and community sports events. Entertainment programs, such as nightly cultural dance performances, have been cancelled due to safety concerns.

Former Chief Minister of Manipur, N Biren Singh, has called for peace on the occasion of Holi. In his first video message since his resignation last month, Singh said, “I extend my best wishes to all on the occasion of Holi. Holi is traditionally and historically inseparable from Manipur. It celebrates the triumph of truth. My prayer is that we can restore peace in the state soon and return to our previous lives, which existed before the violence began.”

Singh’s resignation on February 9 led to the imposition of President’s Rule in the state four days later. The situation remains tense, with many internally displaced persons still living in relief camps. As the state grapples with the ongoing crisis, the Holi festival serves as a poignant reminder of the difficulties faced by the people of Manipur.

In pursuit of a peaceful resolution, Singh also expressed his concerns for those living in relief camps, saying, “My belief and prayer is that peace is restored in the state soon, and we can once again return to our lives before the violence began.” The streets of Imphal, typically filled with vibrant colors and festivities, remain subdued, a reflection of the ongoing drama that has unfolded in the state. As the international community watches with concern, the people of Manipur hope for a brighter future.

Original Source: https://news.abplive.com/cities/holi-in-manipur-remains-low-key-amid-violence-ex-cm-n-biren-singh-prays-for-peace-1757657
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Publish Date: 2025-03-15 00:03:00