Shirui Lily Festival 2024 in Manipur: A Crucial Test of Peace and Normalcy

 Manipur Gears Up for Shirui Lily Festival After Ethnic Conflict

Ukhrul, Manipur – The much-anticipated Shirui Lily Festival 2024 is all set to take place from May 20 in Ukhrul district, marking the first major tourism event in Manipur since the ethnic conflict that erupted in May 2023. This vibrant festival, named after the rare Shirui Lily flower, is not just a celebration of culture but also a significant test of normalcy, peace, and security in the region.

What is Shirui Lily Festival?

Held in the picturesque locations of Ukhrul town and Shirui village, the festival showcases the unique culture of the Tangkhul Naga community. It features cultural performances, musical concerts, cooking competitions, a beauty pageant, and literary events. Initiated in 2017 by the Manipur tourism department, the festival has become a major tourist attraction, drawing thousands of visitors annually.

Footfall in 2022 and Security Concerns for 2024

In 2022, the Shirui Lily Festival witnessed over 2.19 lakh visitors, primarily from the Meitei-majority Imphal Valley and other states. However, this year’s edition is different. With the state still recovering from last year’s ethnic violence between Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities, safety is a major concern for both organizers and potential tourists.

The journey from Imphal to Ukhrul—about 80 kilometers—requires passing through at least three Kuki-Zo dominated areas, raising apprehensions among Meitei travelers.

Government’s Security Measures for Safe Travel

To restore confidence and promote safe tourism, the Manipur Government has allocated a budget of Rs 6.3 crore for the festival. A high-level security committee led by the DGP has been formed. According to Pooja Elangbam, Director of Tourism, the police, BSF, Army, and other forces will be deployed along the routes.

“We are ensuring full security through ROPs (Road Opening Parties) and convoy systems for travelers,” she said. Influencers like the team behind Imphalgram, a popular local Instagram account, have also been involved in a digital campaign to show the journey’s safety.

Addressing Threats and Ensuring Peace

Recently, a viral video and a statement by an unknown group warning Meiteis not to cross Kuki-Zo areas sparked panic. However, Manipur Police immediately clarified that the organization behind the threat does not exist and reassured that all communities are welcome. The Kuki-Zo Council also distanced itself from the statement, promoting peace and cooperation.

Even the Manipur DGP Rajiv Singh visited Ukhrul to inspect security arrangements firsthand, emphasizing the government's commitment to the event’s success.

Local Economy, Homestays, and Tourism Revival

Tourism in Ukhrul has suffered heavily due to the unrest. The festival is seen as a lifeline for local businesses, including homestays and campsites. According to Ningkharun Shangh, President of Shirui Youth Club, about 100 out of 500 households in Shirui village offer homestay services, and nearly 300 run camping sites.

So far, around 150 bookings have been received, but many locals remain uncertain about visitor turnout. “Preparations are in full swing, and we are hopeful,” said Shangh.

One homestay owner, Wungmatem Nayo, who opened his business in 2019, said, “We are trying our best, but I’m not expecting a large crowd this year.”

Why Shirui Lily Festival 2024 Matters

This year’s Shirui Lily Festival is more than a cultural event. It’s a test of inter-community trust, government readiness, and resilience of local tourism. It also reflects the aspirations of Manipur’s people to return to peace and normal life.

As the festival begins, the eyes of the state and the nation will be on Ukhrul, watching whether this celebration can bloom like the iconic Shirui Lily—rare, beautiful, and symbolic of hope.