IMPHAL, April 28: After a two-year hiatus due to ethnic unrest, the much-anticipated Shirui Lily Festival is set to make its grand return on May 10 at the picturesque Shirui Hills in Manipur’s Ukhrul district.
Organized by the Manipur Tourism Department, the five-day festival is designed to celebrate the state’s rich cultural heritage, honor the blooming of the iconic Shirui Lily, and rejuvenate the tourism sector, which has been impacted in recent years. This year’s event is particularly significant as it marks the 75th anniversary of the Shirui Lily’s recognition with a prestigious award at the Chelsea Flower Show in 1948.
The festival promises a vibrant array of activities and performances, including the Miss Shirui Lily 2025 beauty pageant, themed “Beauty for Humanity,” with over 20 contestants vying for the title. A major highlight will be Shirocks, a music festival featuring performances from renowned international, national, and local bands, fostering unity through the universal language of music. Adventure enthusiasts can look forward to activities such as trekking to Shirui Peak, mud biking, rock climbing, motorcycle racing, camping, and other outdoor sports. A drone show and fireworks display will further enhance the festive atmosphere. Additionally, a literature festival focused on young readers and families will feature interactions with local authors and poets.
In response to security concerns, the government has assured comprehensive arrangements to ensure the safety of all participants and visitors. Meetings have been conducted with the Director General of Police (DGP) of Manipur and the Superintendents of Police (SPs) from Ukhrul, Kamjong, Imphal East, and Imphal West districts. Adequate security measures will be in place along the routes from Imphal to Ukhrul, at the festival venues, and at key public points to maintain a safe and welcoming environment for both tourists and locals.
At the launch event in Imphal, Pooja Elangbam, IAS, Director of the Manipur Tourism Department, expressed optimism that the Shirui Lily Festival would play a crucial role in reigniting the state’s tourism economy. She emphasized that the festival is not only an opportunity to showcase Manipur’s natural beauty and rich cultural traditions but also a platform for creating employment opportunities and boosting economic growth through tourism.
The events will be spread across Shirui village and the Ukhrul district headquarters, offering visitors a unique blend of culture, adventure, music, literature, and tradition. The government hopes that the 2025 edition of the Shirui Lily Festival will generate significant attention, positioning Manipur as a vibrant and attractive destination for both national and international tourists.
The official announcement of the Miss Shirui Lily 2025 pageant was made by Pooja Elangbam, IAS, at a launch event held at Hotel Grande in Imphal on Monday.
