The Second Epathoukok Kombirei Festival 2022 organised by Epathoukok was held at Epathoukok Community Hall, Naoremthong, Imphal West on Sunday.
Uripok assembly constituency MLA Th Raghumnani Singh; commissioner, Art and Culture M Joy Singh, and Epathoukok president S Ibomcha attended the function as chief guest, guest of honour and president respectively.
Addressing the gathering as chief guest, Uripok assembly constituency MLA Th Raghumani said, “It is important to conduct such an event as development of a country is based on the development culture and without it we cannot bring development in our society.”
He expressed appreciation for the initiative taken by the organisation and said that it is the responsibility of all to protect and preserve the endangered species of Kombirei indigenous flower plants. The chief guest also assured that he will do whatever is required for the protection and preservation of the rare species Kombirei.
Attending the programme as guest of honour, Commissioner, Art and Culture, MAHUD and DIPR M Joy Singh, said that nurturing, protection and preservation of indigenous flowers is very much important for future generations. He appreciated the people living nearby the areas of Epathoukok for their initiative and conducting such programmes for awareness and protection of the Kombirei flowers from diminishing and making flowers bloom. He also urged the people to take responsibility in preservation of the flowers to protect the culture and tradition in future.
Chief technical officer, ICAR Sanjoy and N Debendra also spoke about the history of Kombirei and gave awareness to the gathering about the importance of protection of the flowers.
During the festival, a sports painting competition was also conducted and certificates and cash awards were distributed to 35 participants by the chief guest. Certificate and memento were also given to K Tombi Singh (Rtd) principal NG College who has been working for the welfare of Epathoukok organisation.
Various artists performed Khulang Eshei and Khunung Eshei traditional songs at the function.
