Ukhrul: The 13th edition of the Sirarakhong Hathei Phanit (Chili Festival) began on Thursday at Sirarakhong village in Ukhrul District, Manipur.
The picturesque Sirarakhong village, located in the western part of Ukhrul District, came alive as it celebrated the famous Sirarakhong Hathei Phanit, an indigenous chili festival showcasing the village’s rich agricultural heritage.
The inaugural function was graced by Khashim Vashum, Minister of Veterinary & Animal Husbandry and Transport, as the chief guest, and Deputy Commissioner of Ukhrul, Kengoo Zuringla, as the guest of honor.
Minister Khashim Vashum hoisted the festival flag, officially marking its commencement, and the cultural troupe of Sirarakhong youth displayed colorful folk songs and dances.
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During his speech, Minister Vashum highlighted the importance of preserving traditional agricultural techniques and urged local farmers to embrace these time-honored practices. He emphasized the need for organic farming, promoting a cultivation ethos free of chemical fertilizers like urea. “We must focus on producing pure, organic Hathei and reject any unethical practices that could compromise our agricultural integrity,” stated Minister Vashum.
The Hathei Phanit, which has put Sirarakhong on the map as a unique place for quality chili cultivation, also serves as a testament to the contributions of local women. “As far as I can remember, this festival was initiated by local womenfolk,” Minister Vashum acknowledged. He encouraged the village to recognize and support the vital role women play in promoting and enhancing Hathei production.
Echoing the minister’s sentiments, Deputy Commissioner Zuringla raised concerns about the unethical use of urea by certain farmers. She emphasized the importance of maintaining the integrity of Hathei cultivation, noting that the presence of artificial chemicals is easily detectable through lab testing. “Hathei is a unique blessing for Sirarakhong village and the Tangkhul community, and we cannot afford to destroy it,” she remarked passionately, urging farmers to recommit to natural farming practices.
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As the festival continued, Minister Vashum, alongside DC Zuringla, inaugurated a series of stalls dedicated to showcasing the Hathei crops. Nine local self-help groups (SHGs) participated, displaying their carefully cultivated produce, which ranged from vibrant shades of red and green to the signature taste for which Sirarakhong Hathei is known.
The festival is set to conclude on 30 August 2024. It is reported that around 20,000 kilograms of Sirarakhong Hathei have been harvested this year, with more yet to be collected by farmers. Visitors from different places could be seen checking and buying Hathei from the stalls. Renowned singers Wungchan Kasom and K. Remnu lit up the festival with their performances of oldies.
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