Manipur is famous for many reasons, and one of them is because of the rich collection of festivals and cultural events celebrated. One of the most popular festivals of this region is Yaoshang, celebrated in the month of Phalguna which according to the lunar calendar falls around March. Similar to Holi, the locals celebrate Yaoshang with great enthusiasm, with dance, songs, and sports activities taking place throughout the region.
When is Yaoshang Festival in 2025?
In 2025, the Yaoshang festival will be celebrated on March 14 and 15 (Friday & Saturday). These dates align with the full moon (Purnima) of the Phalguna month according to the Hindu lunar calendar.
| Date | Day | Festival Name |
| 14 March 2025 | Friday | Yaoshang Festival |
| 15 March 2025 | Saturday | Yaoshang Festival |
Significance of Yaoshang Festival
Like many other regional festivals of the culture, Yaoshang is considered to have both cultural and religious importance for the residents of Manipur. It is unique in its details when compared to the festivities of Holi, having its own integrated Vaishnavite traditions at the core along with the use of games culturally rooted to the region of Manipuri alongside dances like the Thabal Chongba which involves moonlight.
How is Yaoshang Celebrated in Manipur?
This festival, when celebrated, lasts for five days and is filled with a variety of rituals and festivities.
Day 1: Burning of the Yaoshang Hut (Yaoshang Mei Thaba)
The celebrations begin with the burning of the hut. This act represents the metaphorical purging of evil forces and the start of the festivities.
Day 2-4: Thabal Chongba and Cultural Events
- Thabal Chongba Dance: One of the much anticipated activities, where girls and boys form a circle and dance under the moonlight together while holding hands and singing along to the traditional folk music.
- Community Bonding: Children visit different neighborhoods to collect funds, which is popularly known as “Nakatheng.”
- Folk Image: People enjoy a variety of Mipuri folk dances and music.
Day 5: Sports & Community Feasts
Grand feasts brought families and communities along, making this a festival of unity and joy. The final day of Yaoshang is also marked with sports activities like
- Mukna (Manipuri Wrestling)
- Yubi Lakpi (Rugby-like game with a coconut)
- Thang-Ta (Martial Arts)
- Horse Racing
- Athletic Competitions
Difference Between Holi and Yaoshang
Both Yaoshang and Holi exhibit some commonalities, but they are fundamentally different.
| Feature | Holi | Yaoshang |
| Duration | 2 Days | 5 Days |
| Primary Ritual | Throwing colors | Thabal Chongba & Sports |
| Religious Significance | Krishna & Radha’s love | Vaishnavite Traditions |
| Celebrated In | Pan-India | Primarily Manipur |
Is Yaoshang a Public Holiday in Manipur?
Yes, Yaoshang, like other major public holidays, is a festive period during which people continue to work, and students attend school or classes even on designated holidays.
Best Places to Experience Yaoshang Festival in Manipur
If you are traveling to Manipur to attend the Yaoshang celebration in the year 2025, here is a short selection of places to enjoy the holiday’s celebrations.
- Imphal – Experience large-scale Thabal Chongba events and community feasts.
- Bishnupur – Known for its traditional sports competitions.
- Thoubal – Offers some of the best cultural performances and folk dances.
- Kangla Fort – Visit the historic site and witness special Yaoshang processions.
Traditional Foods Enjoyed During Yaoshang
People celebrate all festivals with food. When celebrating Yaoshang, some of the traditional Manipuri dishes are a must-try:
- Chak-hao Kheer (Black rice pudding)
- Singju (Spicy salad with seasonal herbs)
- Eromba (Fermented fish and mashed vegetables)
- Kanghou (Stir-fried vegetables)
- Keli Chana (Festival-special chickpea dish)
How to Experience Yaoshang Festival in 2025?
To enjoy the festivities of Yaoshang fully, here are some suggestions:
- Arrive Early: Plan your travel in advance to witness the opening ceremony and hut-burning ritual.
- Participate in Thabal Chongba: Experience this beautiful moonlight dance with locals.
- Attend Traditional Sports Events: Watch Mukna wrestling and Yubi Lakpi games.
- Savor Local Cuisine: Don’t miss out on the traditional Meitei food.
- Visit Temples: Witness Vaishnavite rituals at famous temples in Manipur.
I believe Yaoshang is more than just a festival; it is a vibrant fusion of culture, tradition, sports, and community achievements. For anyone planning a visit to Manipur in 2025, the Yaoshang festival on March 14-15 promises to be a highlight.
Whether you are an avid traveler, a culture enthusiast, or simply curious about Indian festivals, Yaoshang offers a unique experience that beautifully blends age-old traditions with joyous celebrations.
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