Guv AK Bhalla Inaugurates 5th State Level Shirui Lily Festival

Governor of Manipur, Ajay Kumar Bhalla, inaugurated the 5^th State Level Shirui Lily Festival-2025 at Heritage Ground, Vangayan, Shirui village in Ukhrul district, today. The five-day festival showcases cultural events, artifacts, games, music and food of Manipur state in general and particularly that of the Tangkhul Naga tribe. During the inauguration, Governor released the 75^th Anniversary Souvenir and inspected the various stalls at the venue. He also witnessed spectacular cultural performances shown by different tribes. In the morning, Governor scaled the Shirui peak, taking in the serene beauty of the valley below. Amidst this picturesque landscape, the Shirui Lily stood in full bloom, a quiet yet striking emblem of nature’s charm.

Addressing the gathering at the inaugural ceremony, Governor said, the Shirui Lily festival, which is being held in the picturesque district of Ukhrul is a tribute to the magnificent Shirui Lily- the State Flower. He said, from anywhere else in the planet, but in the Shirui Hills, this rare plant is a living symbol of Manipur’s ecological wealth and natural heritage. Organised with the dual vision of promoting sustainable eco-tourism and environmental awareness, this festival has grown into one of the most attractive and spectacular events in our State’s cultural calendar.

Governor highlighted Shirui Lily as a fragile marvel, thriving solely in the unique micro-climate of Shirui hills, making the region exceptional. More than a botanical treasure, it symbolizes resilience, uniqueness, and ecological balance. The festival serves as a collective reminder to protect this endangered species while celebrating the vibrant Tangkhul Naga culture through traditional dances, music, crafts, and local cuisines, uniting people from all walks of life.

Describing Ukhrul as crown jewel of Manipur’s hill districts, Governor further said, it is a destination in itself with green hills, forest and deep-rooted traditions. From the track to Shirui peak, to the exploration of Khangkhui Caves and visit to Longpi pottery village, Ukhrul truly has something for everyone.

Governor continued that the festival which has come back after a gap of two years will be a beginning again all over in the years to come and will see more and more visitors. We have the intent of promoting this festival all across the country and abroad.

Governor exuded confidence that the festival will not only entertain and inspire but also ignite people’s sense of environmental stewardship and cultural vibes. He also urged the people to forget about the smaller things but to work for a harmonious and peaceful living among all sections of society. Governor wished the festival a grand success.

Security Advisor Kuldiep Singh; Judge of Madras High Court - Justice Krishnan; PCCF, Anurag Bajpai; Secretary (Tourism), Hungyo Worshang; VC; CAU, Anupam Mishra; President, Tangkhul Naga Long, Sword Vashum; President, Tangkhul Naga Wungnao Long, Kasung Tennyson and village chiefs, attended among others in the inaugural ceremony of the festival.