The Manipur Cherry Blossom and Flower Festival commenced today at Motu Tubvii, Mao Gate, as part of the ongoing Sangai Festival, under the theme “Where Blossoms Breathe Harmony.”
The inaugural programme was graced by T. Pamei, IAS, Commissioner and Secretary of Horticulture and Soil Conservation, Government of Manipur, as Chief Guest, and Mamoni Doley, IAS, Deputy Commissioner of Senapati, as Guest of Honour.
Speaking at the event, Chief Guest T. Pamei highlighted that the Cherry Blossom and Flower Festival showcases Manipur’s rich cultural heritage, home to over 35 tribes and communities. He extended his best wishes for the successful celebration of Sangai Festival 2025 and lauded the people of Mao for their achievements in education, entrepreneurship, generosity, and hospitality.
Pamei also informed the gathering about the government’s proposal to develop a floriculture hub in the Mao area under the Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI), citing its favourable agro-climatic conditions. He urged the public to preserve biodiversity and uphold traditional cultural values.
In her Guest of Honour speech, DC Mamoni Doley expressed happiness at being part of the event, noting that the festival’s inclusion in the Sangai Festival spotlighted the region’s unique identity at national and international levels. She described the state-wide celebrations as a proud moment, reflecting Manipur’s beauty and diversity. Doley further stressed the district’s tourism potential and called for greater exploration of its vibrant culture. She also praised the Tourism Department and organisers for their dedicated efforts.
Following the formal programme, the Chief Guest, accompanied by DC Mamoni Doley and her team, inspected 53 exhibition stalls displaying flowers, vegetables, organic foods, handicrafts, food items, and products by SHGs and local entrepreneurs.
The event, moderated by Panii Ngaonii, Sub-Deputy Collector of Senapati, also featured a panel discussion on “Women in Bloom: Empowering Rural Women through Flower-Based Livelihoods,” with expert speakers including Ng. Ngaorai, H. Veisho, Mrs. Sarah Nuh and Mrs. Eshia Daikho.
Festival activities include cherry blossom viewing, guided walks, trekking to Mt. Esii, visits to Elai Che Waterfall and local farms, exhibitions of flowers and local produce, handicraft bazaars, indigenous cuisine stalls, and a photography contest.
Ahead of the festival, 103 participants joined the Cherry Blossom Unity Run on November 18, while 118 trekked to Mt. Etsii on November 19. A photo contest titled “Chasing the Blossom Breeze” and the Khedzii Khoru traditional cooking competition were also held.
The Cherry Blossom and Flower Festival will continue until November 23, 2025, featuring cultural performances in collaboration with ICCR North East, traditional games, a traditional chef competition, prize distributions, and other special events.
