IMPHAL, Nov 22 � The ten- day Manipur Sangai Festival opened at the historic Hapta Kangjeibung here on Monday.
A number of business delegates and cultural troupes from neighbouring Myanmar, Thailand and Kenya along with State�s ethnic communities are participating in the festival of extravaganza.
Manipur Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh inaugurated the colourful festival at the Bhagyachandra Open Air Theatre (BOAT), located within the Hapta Kangjeibung complex in Imphal East district.
The main attraction of the day was W Lokendrajit choreographed cultural show which depicted the creation of universe. Impressed by the show, Ibobi announced a cash prize of Rs 1 lakh for the choreographer.
Nearly 300 stalls offering different varieties of delicacies and dishes, handloom and handicraft products of different ethnic groups of Manipur have been put up at the festival. Myanmar and Thailand food stalls are another attraction of the festival.
Speaking at the opening function, the Chief Minister expressed the need to develop conducive atmosphere in order to promote Manipur as a world class tourism destination. He expressed hope that the Centre would extend the relaxation period of the Protected Area Permit (PAP).
The inflow of tourists both domestic and foreigners are on the rise in Manipur after the relaxation of the PAP for foreigners entering Manipur for one year since January 1 this year.
