Cherry Blossom Fest kicks off

Senapati, Nov 21 (DIO/IPR) : As part of the 12th Sangai Festival, the Manipur Cherry Blossom and Flower Festival kicked off today at Motu Tubvii, Mao Gate under the theme “Where Blossoms Breathe Harmony”.
The programme was graced by T Pamei, IAS, Commissioner and Secretary, Horticulture and Soil Conservation as the chief guest and Mamoni Doley, IAS, Deputy Commissioner, Senapati as the guest of honour.
Addressing the gathering, T Pamei said that the festival is celebrated to showcase the rich cultural heritage of the State which is inhabited by more than 35 tribes and communities.
Extending his wishes for the successful celebration of Sangai Festival 2025, he praised the people of Mao for their exemplary education, entrepreneurship, generosity, and hospitality.
The Government is proposing a floriculture hub in Mao area owing to its favourable agro-climatic condition through Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI), he said.
He appealed to people to preserve, protect and promote biodiversity as well as uphold and respect the rich uniqueness of traditional culture value.
Speaking as the guest of honour, DC Mamoni Doley said the festival will highlight the unique identity of the area bringing attention to the Nation.
The DC emphasized on the tourism potential of the district and stressed on the need for more exploration to show its vibrant and diverse culture. She also applauded the Tourism Department and organiser for their hard work.
Later, T Pamei accompanied by Mamoni Doley and the District Administration team along with the organisers inspected the 53 stalls set up by SHGs and local entrepreneurs.
Moderated by Panii Ngaonii, Sub Deputy Collector, Senapati, a discussion on ‘Women in Bloom Empowering Rural Women through Flower- Based Livelihoods’ followed. Many expert panellists namely, Ng Ngaorai, District Officer, Horticulture & Soil Conservation, Senapati and H Veisho, DMM I/C Manipur State Rural Livelihood Mission, Senapati among others were in attendance.
Various activities of the festival include viewing of cherry blossom, walks to Elai Che waterfall, potato farm, guiding trek to Mt Esii, flowers, fruits and vegetables stall exhibition and sales, local handicraft and art bazar, exhibition of PwDs' talent in crafts, painting, dance and songs, indigenous cuisine and photography contest.
During the curtain raiser event, 103 persons participated in the Cherry Blossom Unity Run along a stretch of 10 kms from Tadubi to the festival site on November 18 while another 118 took part in the trek to Mt Etsii the next day.
The event also included a photo contest under the theme "Chasing the Blossom Breeze" and Khedzii Khoru Competition on "Cooking the flavours of our Past".
It may also be mentioned that the Cherry Blossom and Flower Festival will continue till November 23 in collaboration with ICCR North East.