An annual ten-day festival held in November that acts as a major cultural showcase, featuring indigenous sports, music, dance, traditional crafts, handlooms, and local cuisine.
A Celebration of Manipur’s Cultural Heritage
The Sangai Festival, held every November, is Manipur’s flagship ten-day cultural event, named after the rare brow-antlered deer, Sangai. It celebrates the state’s unique flora, fauna, and traditions while promoting tourism and cultural pride. The festival unites urban and rural communities in a vibrant showcase of Manipuri heritage. Traditional rituals, performances, and artistic displays transform the state into a colorful, immersive celebration of its rich legacy. Sangai Festival emphasizes Manipur’s identity, creativity, and the harmony between nature and culture.
Folk Arts, Music, and Dance
The festival features captivating performances of Manipuri classical and folk arts. Dances like Ras Lila and Lai Haraoba, accompanied by folk music, narrate mythology and local folklore. Performances educate and entertain, highlighting spiritual and historical traditions. Tribal performers, local musicians, and contemporary artists add diversity to the programs. Graceful movements, rhythmic drumming, and melodic tunes create a mesmerizing artistic spectacle. Through these performances, Sangai Festival preserves and celebrates the cultural richness of Manipur.
Crafts, Cuisine, and Indigenous Sports
Sangai Festival also highlights Manipur’s craftsmanship, handlooms, and culinary heritage. Artisans display intricate weaving, pottery, and bamboo crafts, while food stalls serve traditional delicacies. Workshops and demonstrations allow visitors to engage with local culture hands-on. Indigenous sports like mukna (wrestling) and yubi lakpi (coconut rugby) showcase physical and cultural traditions. By combining arts, cuisine, and sports, the festival fosters tourism, strengthens community pride, and offers a unique glimpse into Manipur’s multifaceted identity.