The 12th Manipur Sangai Festival drew to a close at the Bhagyachandra Open-Air Theatre on November 30, with Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla highlighting its growing importance as a platform for both national and international cultural outreach. The closing ceremony saw participation from a wide spectrum of attendees, including tourism stakeholders from across India and abroad. Governor Bhalla said the festival concluded “on a note of unity and cultural pride, despite the challenges faced by the state.”
Using the occasion to spotlight the Manipur government’s ongoing efforts to promote tourism, Bhalla emphasised the administration’s focus on targeted promotion, strategic investment and sustained infrastructure development. These initiatives, he said, are designed to strengthen the state’s tourism potential and foster long-term growth. He noted that this year’s edition provided meaningful engagement opportunities for tourism professionals and enthusiasts alike. “The festival served as a significant outreach platform, bringing together stakeholders from within the country and overseas,” Bhalla remarked.
A wide spectrum of activities—from a film festival to traditional sports events—formed the backbone of this year’s celebrations. The Governor pointed to the vibrancy of Manipuri arts, culture and sports, adding that these elements helped reinforce a strong sense of community throughout the event. Bhalla also expressed gratitude to various government departments and the people of Manipur for their cooperation and support. Their collective efforts, he said, ensured the smooth conduct of the festival and underscored the state’s resilience and unity.
The successful completion of the 2025 edition demonstrates the organisers’ ability to preserve cultural heritage while supporting economic and tourism aspirations. It also reaffirms the government’s commitment to bringing communities together through shared celebration, even amid ongoing challenges.
