Yaoshang Festival returns to Manipur after year-long hiatus, marking resilience amid crisis

Imphal, March 14: After a year-long pause due to the violent conflict that engulfed Manipur on May 3, 2023, the vibrant five-day Yaoshang festival kicked off on Friday, bringing a much-needed sense of hope and celebration to the state. One of Manipur’s most cherished cultural events, the festival resumed in full swing across many parts of the state, symbolizing the resilience of its people in the face of adversity.

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A Festival of Faith, Fitness, and Renewal

Yaoshang, which begins on the full moon day of Lamta in the Manipuri lunar calendar, is a unique blend of religious rituals, sports, and community bonding. The festival is marked by the construction of small thatch huts, known as Yaoshang, in every locality. After performing traditional rituals, these huts are set ablaze, signifying the cleansing of past troubles and the ushering in of new beginnings.

This year, as the sacred flames illuminated the night sky, people gathered to offer prayers for peace, prosperity, and an end to the violence that has plagued the state for almost two years. Early in the day, local clubs and Meira Paibi groups fetched the sacred flame from Kangla, marking the official start of the Yaoshang Sports Meet, a highlight of the festival. Representatives from various localities also lit their torches at the Lainingthou Sanamahi Temple before carrying them back to their respective playgrounds to inaugurate sports events.

The return of Yaoshang holds special significance this year as it marks the first major cultural celebration since the outbreak of the Manipur crisis in May 2023. Last year, the festival was either canceled or observed in a subdued manner due to widespread violence, displacement, and economic hardships. This year, many have chosen to keep the festivities low-key, reflecting the lingering impact of the crisis.

In the valley districts, local clubs organized sports competitions, including football, marathon races, and traditional games, drawing enthusiastic participation from children and youth. The festival’s emphasis on sports not only promotes fitness but also fosters community spirit, offering a temporary respite from the challenges of daily life. However, Thabal Chongba and other entertainment events will be missed this year.

While the resumption of Yaoshang is a positive sign, the celebrations are not uniform across the state. In areas still affected by sporadic violence or housing displaced populations, festivities remain more restrained. Many families, still living in relief camps or mourning the loss of loved ones, are observing the festival with quiet prayers for peace and normalcy.

The Manipur government and relevant authorities have made efforts to ensure the festival’s safety and smooth conduct. However, the shadow of the ongoing crisis looms large, with many questioning whether the improved situation is sustainable or merely a temporary lull.

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For the people of Manipur, Yaoshang is more than just a festival; it is a testament to their enduring spirit. The return of this cherished tradition, even in a limited capacity, sends a powerful message of hope and resilience. As the sacred flames of Yaoshang burn bright, they serve as a reminder of the community’s collective desire for peace, unity, and a brighter future.

The festival will continue for the next five days, with more sports events, cultural programs, and community gatherings planned. While the road to full recovery remains long, the return of Yaoshang is a small but significant step toward normalcy for a state that has endured immense suffering.