Current Affairs - Festivity

The Shirui Lily Festival is celebrated in the northeastern state of Manipur, specifically in the Ukhrul district where the rare and endangered Shirui Lily (Lilium mackliniae) naturally grows. This unique pinkish-white flower blooms in the Shirui Hills and holds deep cultural and ecological significance. After a two-year break due to ethnic conflict, the festival's return in 2025 marks a step toward peace and cultural revival. The festival, first held in 2017, not only promotes ecotourism and conservation but also showcases the rich heritage of the Tangkhul Naga community through music, dance, and local traditions.

The ‘Garia and Borsho Boron Utsav 2025’ was inaugurated in the state of Tripura by its Chief Minister, Manik Saha. Held in Agartala at Swami Vivekananda Maidan, this two-day cultural event celebrates the traditions of the Tripuri and Reang communities. Central to the festival is the Garia Puja, a spiritual ritual dedicated to Lord Shiva (Mahadev), which holds immense cultural importance among Tripura’s indigenous population. The event features traditional dances, folk music, and other artistic expressions that showcase the state's cultural vibrancy. Prominent political leaders and community members participated, reflecting the significance of the celebration in preserving regional heritage.

Rongali Bihu, also known as Bohag Bihu, is a significant festival in Assam, marking the Assamese New Year and the beginning of the agricultural season. It is a vibrant celebration of spring, harvest, and Assamese identity, culture, and community spirit. The festival is observed across Assam, uniting people of all ages and backgrounds, and is an integral part of the state's cultural heritage.

The Sarhul Festival is a significant celebration for Adivasi communities, particularly in Jharkhand, where it is observed as a public holiday. The festival centres around the worship of the Sal tree, symbolizing the vital connection between the Sun and Earth. It marks the arrival of spring and the start of the new year for tribal groups like the Munda, Oraon, and Ho tribes. Celebrated with rituals, cultural performances, and community feasts, Sarhul also holds political and historical importance as a symbol of Adivasi identity and cultural assertion in Jharkhand.

The 10th India International Dance & Music Festival concluded in New Delhi, held from February 22-27, 2025. The festival featured performances by both global and Indian artists, showcasing traditional and contemporary dance and music. It served as a platform for cultural exchange, promoting the appreciation of diverse artistic traditions. The event was hosted at various city venues and was well-received, celebrating the universal language of music and dance.