What is the Sirarakhong Hathei Festival?

The Sirarakhong Hathei Festival, also known as Hathei Phanit, is an annual chilli festival celebrated in Sirarakhong village, located in Ukhrul district, Manipur. This vibrant festival showcases the GI-tagged Hathei chilli, celebrated by the Tangkhul Naga community.

Location & Dates of Hathei Festival 2025

  • Location: Sirarakhong village, Ukhrul, Manipur

  • Festival Month: September 2025

  • First Held In: 2010

  • Organized By: Tangkhul Naga tribe

The festival has been rescheduled to September, aligning with peak chilli harvesting.

Why is Hathei Chilli Special?

The Hathei chilli, awarded the Geographical Indication (GI) tag in 2021, is known for:

  • Deep red colour

  • Mild heat & long shelf life

  • Sun-dried without artificial processing

  • High commercial and cultural value

It is often referred to in local folklore as the “red cover enveloping the hills”, emphasizing its cultural reverence.

Economic & Social Impact

 Women’s Empowerment

Women play a major role in chilli farming, making it a primary source of income for many households in Sirarakhong.

 Boost to Local Economy

The festival serves as a buy-sell meet for over 500 chilli growers, promoting premium chilli sales and agri-business.

GI Tag: A Tool for Rural Development

The GI status of Hathei chilli protects its regional identity, encourages traditional farming, and improves marketability. This is a model example of how GI tags boost rural economy, a critical topic for UPSC Mains.

Cultural Importance of Hathei Phanit

The festival blends tradition, music, dance, and agriculture. It preserves Tangkhul tribal identity, promotes community pride, and strengthens the connection between land, culture, and livelihood.

Statement-Based MCQs – Sirarakhong Hathei Festival (APSC Focused)

Q1.Consider the following statements regarding the Sirarakhong Hathei Festival:

  1. It is celebrated in Sirarakhong village located in the Ukhrul district of Nagaland.

  2. The festival showcases a GI-tagged chilli known for its mild pungency and vibrant red color.

  3. It is celebrated by the Tangkhul Naga community.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A) 1 and 2 only
B) 2 and 3 only
C) 1 and 3 only
D) 1, 2 and 3

Answer: B) 2 and 3 only

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