Amid Unrest, Manipur’s Two Deputy CMs Share Stage at Hun Festival, Issue Strong Call to End Violence

Amid continuing unrest in the state, the 6th State-Level Hun 2026—an important cultural festival of the Thadou community—was celebrated with traditional fervour and a strong message of peace at Bethsaida village in Kangpokpi district on Tuesday.

The event was attended by Deputy Chief Minister Dr. Losii Dikho as Chief Guest and Deputy Chief Minister Nemcha Kipgen as Functional President, while Saitu MLA Haokholet Kipgen graced the occasion as Guest of Honour.

Senior officials, including Additional Chief Secretary (TA & Hills) Vivek Kumar Dewangan, IAS; Director, Tribal Affairs & Hills/TRI, Rangnamei Rang Peter, IAS; and Kangpokpi Deputy Commissioner Mahesh Chaudhari, IAS, along with other officials, were also present.

Hun, a key festival of the Thadou tribe, symbolises the sprouting of seeds sown earlier and reflects themes of renewal, sustenance and community bonding. Rooted in agrarian tradition, the festival marks gratitude for growth and invokes hope for prosperity, while reinforcing the cultural identity of the community.

Addressing the gathering, Dr. Dikho made a strong appeal for peace, stating that festivals celebrating life and growth must not be overshadowed by violence. He urged all communities to shun conflict and work collectively towards restoring normalcy, stressing that peace remains the cornerstone of development and progress.

Echoing similar concerns, Nemcha Kipgen called for an immediate end to violence and appealed to people across communities to uphold unity and mutual respect. Referring to the essence of Hun as a symbol of hope and renewal, she urged citizens to embrace harmony and rebuild trust during the challenging phase facing the state.

The ceremonial Hun offering was led by Rev. V. Sitlhou, former General Secretary of MBC, following felicitation of the dignitaries.

In his welcome address, Chongpu Kipgen, President of Thadou Inpi General Headquarters and Chairman of the organising committee, extended Hun greetings and blessings to all. He said the festival serves as a reminder of shared heritage and collective responsibility, urging the community to remain united and uphold peace while preserving their rich cultural traditions.

The event witnessed vibrant cultural displays by various villages, showcasing the richness and diversity of Thadou traditions. Performances included the presentation of Hun Lapi (Hun theme song) and Thadou Lapi (Thadou theme song) by the Thadou Artiste Association, enthralling the audience with traditional melodies and cultural pride.

A major highlight of the celebration was the performance of the traditional musical instrument Gosem by renowned artiste Guru Amang Haokip, alongside captivating cultural choreography that reflected the spirit and ethos of the Thadou community.

A particularly heartening moment during the celebration was when Deputy Chief Ministers Dr. Losii Dikho and Nemcha Kipgen, joined by senior officials, stepped forward to dance in unison with the cultural troupe. Their presence amidst the performers blurred the lines between authority and community, reflecting humility, cultural respect, and shared identity.

Set to rhythmic beats and traditional melodies, the dance became more than a performance—it emerged as a visual expression of unity and harmony. At a time when the state continues to grapple with tensions, the moment stood out as a poignant reminder that culture has the power to bridge divides and bring people together.

The celebration culminated with the traditional Hun feast, symbolising unity, gratitude and shared prosperity.

Despite the prevailing situation, the festival stood out as a strong affirmation of cultural resilience and a collective call for peace across Manipur.