In a first for Manipur, indigenous communities following the Sanamahi faith jointly celebrated Sajibu Nongma Panba Cheiraoba at Lamlanghupi Chothe village in Bishnupur district on Thursday.
The Meetei, Kabui, Chothe and Maring communities came together to organise the state-level celebration under the initiative of a committee formed by the Lainingthou Sanamahi Temple Board.
As part of the programme, elderly women from the participating communities carried traditional offerings, including fruits and ritual items, which were first presented at the residence of village chief Thao Jatra Chothe and later offered at the sacred site of Lainingthou Leimarel. Community leaders also performed customary rituals in accordance with their respective traditions.
The celebration was formally inaugurated by leaders of the four communities through the hoisting of flags representing the seven Salais, marking unity among the groups.
Chairman of the organising committee, Kamson Gangmumei Kabui of Sawombung Kabui, stated that the joint celebration was aimed at strengthening unity among the Meetei, Chothe, Maring and Kabui communities, who had previously observed the festival separately. He said the initiative followed deliberations among community leaders to promote collective celebration and preserve indigenous faith and traditions.
He further noted that the programme seeks to create a common platform for followers of the Sanamahi faith and expressed hope that such joint celebrations would continue at the state level in the coming years.