Manipur Tourism Director Lourembam Bikram has said that the Sangai Festival should be seen as a major tourism strategy rather than just an annual celebration. He made these remarks while speaking at a one-day workshop on “Tourism Potential in Manipur,” held at the Manipur Press Club on Wednesday. The event was jointly organised by the Directorate of Tourism and the All Manipur Working Journalists’ Union (AMWJU). Bikram, who attended the programme as the chief guest, said Manipur has vast untapped tourism potential. Referring to a departmental survey, he pointed out that the state has identified 135 tourist locations—enough for any visitor to spend at least 15 days exploring Manipur’s natural beauty, culture and traditions.
He added that hosting large festivals is a proven global method to attract travellers, and India too is promoting tourism through major cultural events. The Sangai Festival 2025, scheduled from November 21 to 30, will highlight the rich cultural identity and heritage of Manipur’s many indigenous communities. Bikram said the event will showcase traditional arts, sports, Shumang Leela, and Manipuri films, besides hosting the Sangai Music Festival from November 28 to 30, which will feature local, national and international artists. Responding to concerns raised by civil society groups and internally displaced persons (IDPs), Bikram said the government fully understands the emotional challenges faced by those affected by recent conflicts. However, he stressed that the festival is planned with a long-term vision focused on economic revival, community involvement and tourism-led development.
To support IDPs, the government has arranged free stalls for them during the festival and waived all entry fees at the venues. Bikram noted that building infrastructure alone will not strengthen Manipur’s tourism industry. He said a tourism-friendly atmosphere, good hospitality, civic sense and cooperation from the public are equally important to drive sustainable growth.
