Even before the festive mood of the Shirui Fest dies down, the State is witnessing another big festival “The Barak Spring Festival” coming up in Senapati, the northern district of the state. Earlier held annually during winter, the Barak Festival comes up this year with a new nomenclature “Barak Spring Festival”along with a new schedule.
The 2-Day Festival, which begins on 22nd May, is being organized by Naga People’s Organisation (NPO), the apex civil society organization of the district. This spring festival carrying the theme “Reclaiming Responsibilities”will not only celebrate the manifold blessings of the benevolent river but also showcase the rich traditions and culture of the various tribes who have been nurtured by the Barak. The festival will rejuvenate and revive the cultural heritage and values of the people and will instill a spirit to conserve and protect the environment of the river valley and the district as a whole.
Barak, the gift of God, the biggest river in the state, has been a source of great blessing to the people of the state, particularly to those in Senapati districtsince time immemorial. This river has been nourishing the different tribes dwelling in the district over the ages. Under the banner of this gifted river, the different tribes in the district found a vital platform to promote fraternity, mutual respect and cooperation towards building up a common future.
The major highlights of the festival include Barak Run, Barak Nite, Barak Voice Hunt,Barak Special, Barak Melody, trekking, folk songs,demonstration cum competition of traditional practices and indigenous skills by the tribes, exhibition and sale of local produce, etc.
The inaugural function of the festival will be held at the Senapati Mini Stadium, the main venue of the festival. Hon’ble Chief Minister of Manipur Mr. N. BirenSingh will grace the inaugural function as Chief Guest and will be accompanied by Mr. N. Kayisii, Hon’ble Minister, Tribal Affairs & Hills and Fisheries and Mr. L. Dikho, Hon’ble Minister, PHED, Printing & Stationery as the Chief Host and Chief Celebrant respectively