After a two-year pause, the Meitei community in Manipur has joyously revived the sacred tradition of Cheiraoba hill climbing, symbolizing renewal and resilience. Thousands of devotees, including men, women, and children, ascended Thangmeiband Cheiraoching on Saturday following their morning feast, marking the beginning of the Meitei New Year with devotion and fervor.
Dressed in traditional attire, participants made their way up the hill to offer prayers and perform rituals, seeking peace, prosperity, and well-being for the year ahead. The sacred climb, deeply rooted in Meitei tradition, signifies the community’s spirit of overcoming obstacles and striving for progress.
Cheiraoba celebrations commenced with households thoroughly cleaning their homes and preparing traditional dishes as offerings to local deities at their doorsteps. The family feast that follows is an integral part of the festival, fostering unity and gratitude. The ritualistic hill climb serves as a symbolic journey toward greater heights in life, reinforcing cultural values and aspirations.
The revival of this cherished tradition after a hiatus underscores the enduring strength and unity of the Meitei people. The celebration was met with enthusiasm, reflecting a collective hope for prosperity and harmony in the coming year.
