Manipur Sangai Festival

The Sangai festival is the most awaited festival in Manipur. This annual festival is named after the state animal, the Sangai or the brow antlered deer found only in Manipur. Started in the year 2010, the festival aims to showcase Manipur’s rich cultural heritage and indigenous tradition which is still undiscovered by many. One of the largest festivals celebrated in grandeur the festival captivates people from all over India and around the world. A grand affair, the festival glorifies the culture, handlooms, handicrafts, indigenous sports, music, adventure sports and cuisine of Manipur. The festival promotes the cultural extravaganza of Manipur through music, dance and various native art forms that are part of the Manipuri tribes and people. Ras Leela, the classical dance form of Manipur is quite famous and forms an important part along with other folk dance performances. The festival is an opportunity for artisans and weavers to showcase their creativity and talent through the indigenous forms of handicrafts and handlooms. One can also have insights about the living-style of various tribes through the themed huts display at the heritage park. Locals exhibit their skills in the native sports which includes the famous martial art of Manipur - Thang Ta (a combination of Spear & Sword skills) along with other sports. Sagol Kangjei is the indigenous form of polo that is extensively played here. Apart from these sports, one may also enjoy and indulge in adventure sports like trekking, white water rafting and parasailing at various locations. A festival is never complete without a feast! The local flavours and exotic Manipuri dishes can be relished at the food stalls in the festival grounds. The Manipuri cuisine has its own distinctive flavour because of the natural and indigenous ingredients used in preparing them. The ‘Cherry Blossom Festival’ at Senapati District is another special attraction of the festival and with Dzuko valley in the same district, the festival attracts huge number of visitors during the festival.