IMPHAL, March 6 � People of Manipur, mostly Hindus are celebrating the local version of Holi called Yaoshang, the greatest festival of the State, since Thursday. The festival will conclude on March 9.
The main market in Imphal was jam packed as the people went for last minute shopping for the festival on Thursday.
The media houses have announced a five day holiday for the festival till March 9. The festival which marks the rejuvenation of the spirit of life and is celebrated with gaiety and enthusiasm, commemorates the birthday of Chaitanya Mahaprabhu.
The festival normally begins on full Moon day of the Meitei Lunar month of Lamta (February-March) and is celebrated for five days. The highlight of the festivities, celebrated mostly in the valley area by the Meiteis, is collection of donations from households by pre-puberty young boys and girls dressed in their fineries, playing with colours and water.
The main highlight of the festival includes the Thabal Chongba, a traditional Manipuri folk dance where boys and girls hold hands, sing and dance in a circle. A festive mood has filled the air here in the State capital.
On the first day of the festival on Thursday, the members of local clubs here thronged the historic Kangla Fort to collect the sacred fire for their torch rallies as part of the opening of sports activities.
