Manipur will host a grand celebration of World Indigenous Day 2025 on August 9 at the City Convention Centre, Imphal, with participation from all eight Northeastern states. The event promises to be a vibrant showcase of indigenous pride, unity, and resilience under the theme “Defending Rights, Shaping Futures.” The announcement was made by Ashang Kasar, President of the Indigenous People’s Forum Manipur (IPFM), at a press conference held at the Manipur Press Club on Friday. The event is being organized by IPFM under the aegis of the North East Indigenous People’s Forum (NEIPF), which has long worked to strengthen the voice and visibility of indigenous communities in the region.
Kasar described the upcoming celebration as a collective affirmation of the Northeast’s rich indigenous heritage. “This year’s event will not only honour the traditions of our ancestors but will also create a powerful platform to reaffirm our commitment to preserving indigenous rights and shaping a secure future for our coming generations,” he said.
The program will include a grand cultural showcase, featuring folk songs, traditional dances, and community performances from each participating state. Delegates and cultural troupes from Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim, Tripura, and host state Manipur will present their unique heritage and narratives through vibrant performances.