Amit Shah Extends Sajibu Cheiraoba Greetings To People Of Manipur

Union Home Minister Amit Shah extended greetings to the people of Manipur on the occasion of Sajibu Cheiraoba.

Taking to X, Shah posted, “Greetings to our sisters and brothers of Manipur on the occasion of Sajibu Cheiraoba. May this new year strengthen our roots with culture and bless all with happiness and abundance.”

The Meitei people celebrate Sajibu Cheiraoba as their traditional lunar new year, predominantly in Manipur.

Also known as Sajibu Nongma Pānba or Meitei Cheiraoba, the festival signifies the first day of the Sajibu month in the Meitei lunar calendar.

People observe the occasion by offering fruits, vegetables, rice and other food items to Lainingthou Sanamahi, the household deity.

Families prepare an odd number of dishes, which are later offered at designated places within the house as part of traditional customs.

A key ritual involves offering food at the front and rear of the house to deities associated with prosperity and protection.

Following the rituals, families exchange food with relatives and neighbours, a custom known as ‘Mathel Laanba’, before sharing a festive meal.

Another important tradition is ‘Ching Kāba’, where people climb nearby hillocks to pay homage to local deities, symbolising spiritual elevation.

Preparations for the festival also include cleaning homes and purchasing new clothes, marking a fresh beginning for the year.

Celebrated by communities in Manipur and by the Meitei diaspora, Sajibu Cheiraoba reflects cultural continuity, social bonding and spiritual renewal.

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