Art & Culture – GS1

Why in News?

The 12th Manipur Sangai Festival 2025 concluded on 30 November in Imphal, held under tight security and ongoing protests by internally displaced persons (IDPs).

About Manipur Sangai Festival

The Manipur Sangai Festival, the State’s biggest annual tourism event, returned after a two-year suspension due to ethnic unrest. Organised from 21–30 November, it showcased Manipur’s cultural richness, traditional sports, handloom, handicrafts, and performing arts.

At the closing ceremony held at Bhagyachandra Open Air Theatre, Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla praised the government’s efforts to promote tourism and strengthen infrastructure. He emphasised that despite challenges, the festival highlighted unity, cultural pride, and the resilience of Manipuri society.

The festival featured:

• Sangai Film Festival,

• Traditional sports,

• Performances by Government Dance College artistes,

• Showcases of Manipuri textiles, indigenous crafts, and tribal culture.

However, the event also witnessed social tension. Internally displaced persons from ethnic violence (May 2023) staged demonstrations at Kangla Gate, demanding that the government prioritise conflict resolution and rehabilitation over tourism celebrations. Their protest highlighted the humanitarian crisis still affecting thousands.

Officials including the Chief Secretary, Security Advisor, and senior civil and military authorities attended the closing ceremony, reiterating the State’s commitment to restoring normalcy and reviving tourism.

The Sangai Festival—named after the endangered brow-antlered deer, Rucervus eldii eldii, found only in Manipur’s Keibul Lamjao National Park—remains central to the State’s identity and tourism strategy.

Exam Hook (One Line)

The Sangai Festival is named after the endangered Manipur brow-antlered deer (State Animal), found only in the floating Keibul Lamjao National Park.

MCQs

1. With reference to the Manipur Sangai Festival, consider the following statements:

1. The festival is named after a deer species found exclusively in Manipur.

2. The festival was suspended for two years due to ethnic unrest in the State.

3. The Sangai Film Festival is a major component of the event.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

(a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 2 and 3 only

(c) 1 and 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

Answer: (d)