Imphal : The fourth edition of the State-Level Barak Festival 2025 was celebrated with colour and cultural vibrancy at Zeilipou village in Senapati district on Friday, with Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla attending the event as chief guest.

Accompanied by the First Lady, the Governor toured the festival venue and visited the traditional Morungs set up by different communities, each showcasing the customs, lifestyles and artistic traditions of Manipur’s diverse ethnic groups.

As part of the programme, Governor Bhalla unveiled the 4th State-Level Barak Festival Monolith, symbolising continuity, collective identity and reverence for the Barak River. The festival featured a range of indigenous cultural practices, including traditional stone-pulling rituals, exhibitions of ethnic cuisines, ceremonial horn blowing and folk dance performances, reflecting the cultural richness and unity of the region.

Addressing the gathering, the Governor said the Barak Festival had emerged as a powerful symbol of shared heritage, communal harmony and the deep connection between local communities and the Barak River. Referring to the festival’s theme, “Heritage in Harmony,” he highlighted Senapati district’s scenic beauty, cultural diversity and untapped tourism potential.

He noted that cultural festivals play a crucial role in preserving indigenous traditions while also promoting sustainable tourism and inclusive economic growth.

Governor Bhalla said President Droupadi Murmu had expressed admiration for the natural beauty of Senapati district during her recent visit to Manipur. He pointed out that the district’s strategic location along National Highway-2 makes it an important gateway to the state and a promising destination for eco-tourism and experiential travel.

To strengthen tourism infrastructure, the Governor informed that Tourist Circuit Development projects worth about ?8.46 crore, supported by the North Eastern Council, are currently underway in several villages of the district. He said the projects aim to enhance tourism facilities and create livelihood opportunities for local communities.

Emphasising environmental conservation, Governor Bhalla lauded the recent Barak River Cleanliness Drive and called for sustained collective efforts to protect the river and surrounding forests.

He commended the organisers and volunteers for their efforts and urged the youth to take a leading role in cultural preservation and environmental protection to ensure a balanced and sustainable future.

Reiterating the government’s commitment to supporting such initiatives, the Governor stressed that active community participation remains essential. He expressed confidence that the Barak Festival would continue to grow in stature and serve as a platform to highlight the cultural, ecological and economic significance of the Barak River.

The event was attended by Losii Dikho, MLA and NPO president, senior officials from the civil administration, police and Assam Rifles, along with large numbers of local residents, lending the festival a spirit of unity and collective pride.