Manipur hosts festival to provide impetus to tourism

Imphal, Nov.23 (ANI): The Manipur Government and its Department of Tourism have organised the ten-day 'Sangai' festival with an aim to provide an impetus to tourism industry and promote the region's cultural heritage.
The cultural extravaganza began with the aim to showcase the best of Manipur and every year it commences from November 21-30.
It highlights the state's cultural heritage, folk dances, indigenous cuisine and music, adventure sports and natural beauty.
The state's Deputy Chief Minister, Gaikhangam, inaugurated the festival at Hapta Kangjeibung here two days ago.
Olympics bronze medallist MC Mary Kom and Royal Thai Embassy Minister Counsellor (commercial) Tharadol Thongruang also attended the inaugural function.
A visitor, Ningthoujam Roshan Singh told the reporters that such festivals would promote tourism in the state.
"I have been a very regular visitor in this festival since three to four years and this time I am finding very new editions in this like the fireworks that we have just seen. So, I am enjoying this festival a lot. I don't think this is the only platform for promoting tourism but I think this is one of the very good platforms for promoting tourism in the state," said Singh.
The 'Festival' was earlier known as the 'Manipur Tourism Festival' which began in 2008.
In 2010, it was renamed as 'Manipur Sangai Festival' with an aim to popularise 'Sangai', the rare species of dear to be found in Manipur.
During the Festival, the artists showcased their rich culture and heritage through their dance performances.
Amid enthusiasm, another visitor, Subdari expressed her gratitude towards the authorities for giving her golden opportunity to participate.
"I feel happy as I think I am getting a golden chance to join this one and to participate in this. I am participating as I have my own food stall," said Subdari.
The festival showcased the finest of handloom, handicrafts and fine arts indigenous cuisine products of the province.
In the recent years, the 'Sangai Festival' has assumed greater significance and the 2012 edition celebrates the ethnic diversity of Manipur Society.
Cultural programmes were also organized to entertain visitors.
International cultural troupes also performed and enthralled the audience at the festival.