Manipur's vibrant Yaoshang festival kicks off

Several theories suggest Yaoshang was a pre-Hindu festival that came to be identified with Holi after Hinduism entered the valley three centuries ago

The Yaoshang festival of Manipur places special emphasis on the participation of communities. For sports clubs, in particular, the festival is a matter of pride. Each club carries a torch from the ancient Kangla Fort, the seat of Manipuri royalty, to its  

Manipuris consider the flame of Kangla fort as holy and auspicious. On March 12, the first day of the five-day festival, mothers bring the holy flame to their sporting clubs in Imphal. (Aishik Chanda | EPS)

Women block a highway on March 12 to collect funds for the folk dance Thabal Chongba. Donations have been scarce in a locality near the Imphal-Bishnupur highway, forcing the women to go beyond their neighbourhood to collect money. (Aishik Chanda | EPS)

Youngsters join hands before the Thabal Chongba dance in Imphal on the night of March 12. (Aishik Chanda | EPS)

Children play a hockey event organised as part of Yaoshang festivities in Imphal on March 12. Until the sports events conclude, the flame from the Kangla fort will keep burning in the sporting club. (Aishik Chanda | EPS)

Devotees visit the Ibudhou Pakhangba temple of pre-Hindu gods in Kangla Fort on March 13. Several theories suggest Yaoshang was a pre-Hindu festival that came to be identified with Holi after Hinduism entered the valley three centuries ago. (Aishik Chanda | EPS)