Imoinu Eratpa festival, a religious festival of lights which falls on the 12th of Wakching (Meitei lunar calendar) of every year, was celebrated widely in various parts of the state on Friday.

The festival is dedicated to the goddess ‘Imoinu Ahongbi’ and celebrated especially by the Meitei community who follow Sanamahism.

Goddess Imoinu or Emoinu is considered as the goddess of wealth, prosperity, home, hearth, peace, wisdom, vitality and resources.

During the festival, people offer rice, vegetables and fruits to the goddess. Similarly, the Meitei community also offer rice, vegetables, fish (mostly ‘Sareng’ or Aallago Attu) to their respective hearths in the kitchen.

Meanwhile, Ningombam Angouton Memorial Trust in collaboration with Meeitei Shanglen Ngak Shenba Lup observed the 13th Ima Imoinu Irat Thouni Thouram-2022 at Wangkhei Thambalkhong Meeitei Marup, Meeitei Lampak, Imphal East.

President of the trust Ningombam Ibohal Meeitei told the media on the sideline of the observation that the festival has been celebrated to worship goddess Imoinu since time immemorial.

He said the day was fixed on the 12th of Wakching after a decision was reached with the Meeitei people (forefathers) and those who have settled in Cachar district in Assam and Myanmar.

At night time, decorated lights were seen in the streets.