The Governor of Manipur, Ajay Kumar Bhalla on Saturday inaugurated the 4th edition of State Level Barak Festival 2025 at Zeilipou, Senapati District, Manipur celebrated under the theme “Heritage In Harmony”.
A rousing reception was organised by the people of Senapati District. The indigenous acts “Lowe Lowe“- a presentation to a dignified leader or elders was performed by the maidens of the Poumai tribe, dedicated to the Hon’ble Governor and his Lady Wife.
Attending the event as Chief Guest, Hon’ble Governor, Ajay Kumar Bhalla unveiled the monolith and witnessed the demonstration of stone pulling. He along with his wife visited the 5 indigenous morungs representing the 5 tribes of Senapati- Mao, Maram, Poumai Naga, Thangal, and Zeliangrong.
Ajay Kumar calls for preserving and maintaining the beauty of the Barak Rivers and conservation of forest. Speaking at the occasion, Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla stated, “the festival is more than an annual celebration, it reflects our shared identity, unity and deep bond with the Barak River. In the history, all the civilisation has developed along the river valleys be it the Nile river or the Indus Valley or river Ganga and the rivers are to be treated as sacred entities. We should develop the Barak River as a source of economic activities as many have done. It is the lifeline. Senapati is known for its remarkable landscape and biodiversity and vibrant tribal culture. It is specially admired for the harmony among its communities as they protect their land and heritage. From historic sites like Makhel, Yang Khullen and Willong and to natural wonders such as Dzuko Valley and Mount Esil, the district holds vast tourism potential. As Manipur’s gateway, Senapati strategic location along the National Highway 2 makes it a natural entry point for visitors from Nagaland and beyond. Positioning this district well for sustainable tourism, ecotourism adventure tourism or experiential travel. Festivals like Barak Festival enables visitors to experience our customs, dances, crafts and cuisines. Strengthening cultural appreciation and local economic growth. As we gathered here beside the Barak River in such a beautiful landscape we are reminded that rivers are story tellers and bridges between cultures”.
He commended the mass drive taken up by the District Administration of Senapati along the Barak River on 10 December, which only reflects the collective commitment to safeguarding this vital lifeline. “Such pro-active efforts are essential to preserve the purity of the Barak River and protect the ecosystem that depends on it. As we enjoyed the songs dances and colour of the festival, let us re-affirm our responsibility to protect the Barak and our forest. I urged all citizens to continue supporting such initiatives so that Barak may nurture the generations to come. This festival is one such step, so that we keep the river beautiful alive and keep on celebrating this festival over many years to come” added Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla.
MLA Losii Dikho on behalf of the people of Senapati extended a warm welcome to the visiting dignitaries. He elaborated on the importance and significance of the Barak River to the people of Senapati and beyond. While calling for preservation and protection of the Barak River clean and useful. He appealed to the Governor to install a sewage system in the Senapati Headquarters for its maintenance and in order to keep the river protected and clean for the benefit of everyone. He also appealed for the development of Zeilipou -the venue for Barak Festival for future posterity.
Mamoni Doley (IAS), Deputy Commissioner of Senapati District gave the welcome address.
The vibrant performance by cultural troupes from Kuki Dance Triupe and Nepali Dance Troupe and special performance by Adane Ozhuo of ‘How Great Thou Art” in Mao language added more colour to the celebration.
The programme was also attended by Ex-Minister Francis Ngajokpa, Ex-MLA K. Raina, Worshang Hungyo (IAS), Secretary Tourism, Sailesh Kumar Chaurasiya (IAS), Commissioner Power, Manipur, Ningshem Vashum, (IPS) DIG Range -IV among others.
