Shirui Lily Festival fosters brotherhood among Manipur’s ethnic groups
May 21, 2025
Ukhrul (Manipur), May 21 (ANI): Nestled in the green hills of Ukhrul district, where clouds meet mountains and nature paints a perfect picture, blooms a rare and beautiful flower — the Shirui Lily. Known to science as Lilium mackliniae, this delicate flower grows only in the cool, misty climate of the Shirui Hills in Manipur — and nowhere else in the world. The Shirui Lily Festival is held every year to celebrate this unique flower and the rich culture of the Tangkhul Naga people. Now in its fifth year, the festival is even more special as it marks 75 years since the lily was first discovered. This year, the festival was made even more memorable with the visit of Governor of Manipur, Ajay Kumar Bhalla. His presence highlighted the importance of protecting Manipur’s natural and cultural heritage. Spanning four days, the festival served as a unifying celebration, bringing together diverse ethnic communities from across Manipur, as well as visitors from all corners of the country. As the Shirui Lily blooms once again, it brings to life the spirit of Manipur — proud, peaceful, and deeply connected to its roots.
