A seminar on “Mera Hou Chongba and Role of Handloom in Strengthening Emotional Integration of Manipur” was held at Iboyaima Sumang Leela Sanglen, Imphal East, as part of the Mera Hou Chongba Festive Fair, 2026.
Organised by the District Handlooms and Textiles, Imphal East, the seminar highlighted the cultural significance of Mera Hou Chongba and the role of traditional handloom in promoting mutual understanding, preserving cultural heritage and strengthening emotional bonds among the diverse communities of Manipur.
The session was moderated by Dr Keisham Sobita, retired Director of the Directorate of Art and Culture, Manipur.
The resource persons included Th. Basanta Singh, Deputy Director (Handloom), Directorate of Handlooms and Textiles, Government of Manipur; cultural activist Makhonmani Mongsaba; Dr Thounaojam Ruhichand, Assistant Professor, Department of Umanglai Haraoba, Manipur University of Culture; and Sougrakpam Bhubon, social and cultural activist, media panellist and president of Shintha Handlooms and Handicrafts, Manipur.
The seminar provided a platform for discussions on the role of Mera Hou Chongba in fostering inter-community relations and the potential of traditional handloom to serve as a shared cultural identity.
