The traditional festival of Sajibu Cheiraoba was celebrated in Manipur to mark the beginning of a new year with cultural gusto and religious fervor. The festival is mainly observed on the first lunar day of the lunar month Sajibu (March/April) by the Meiteis community, a majority ethnic group of Manipur. On this day, people arrange a joint family feast in which traditional cuisines are offered to local deities at the entrance gates of the houses.

After meals, people start climb the Cheiraoching located in Chingmeirong or tops of nearby hills in the afternoon to offer prayers. As per belief they think that it would elevate them to greater heights in their worldly life.

Did You Know?

• Manipur is a state in North East India which became a full fledged state in March 1972. The state is surrounded with natural beauty. It is known as “Switzerland of India”. The climate is pleasant and is a major tourist destination in India.
• The capital city of Manipur is Imphal.
• The people of primary ethnic group, Meetai, form nearly 60 percent of the total population. Other ethnic groups are Naga, Pangal, Kuki, etc. also exists.
• The Barak River is the largest river in Manipur.
• Game Polo is said to have originated from Manipur. The British made this game very popular.