Cheiraoba, Meitei New Year 2024 celebrated in Manipur

Imphal: The Sajibu Cheiraoba also known as “Manipuri New Year” of the Meiteis of Manipur is a traditional festival celebrated on the first day of Sajibu month (the equivalent of April) every year.

This indigenous Manipuri New Year — 2024 was celebrated amidst restrictions with ritual, gaiety, and traditional grand feasts in every Meitei house on Tuesday.

Keeping this festival alive, people wear new clothes and clean their houses.

As a part of the ritual, decorated dishes are offered to various deities at the gate of every Meitei house.

The married sisters presented new clothes and loins to their brothers, parents, and guardians on this day.

It began during the reign of King Maliya Phambalcha (1359 BC-1329 BC).

Manipur Governor Anusuiya Uikey and Chief Minister N Biren Singh have led in extending their greetings to the people on the occasion of Cheiraoba.

In her statement, the Governor urged people to strive for a better Manipur by setting apart their differences and working for a common goal.

She also encouraged people to rededicate themselves to strengthen their bonds of friendship so that all communities can live as brothers and sisters, notwithstanding differences in caste, creed, language, and religion.

Reports of the Cheiraoba festival celebration for the Meiteis residing in different parts of the world including Myanmar, Bangladesh, USA, Canada, Europe, and Australia have been reported.

This year the celebration of this festival is being restricted owing to the ongoing violence between the Meities and Kukis.