New Delhi, April 3, 2025 \u2013 Several Meitei civil society organizations (CSOs) and student groups in Delhi have issued an urgent appeal to the community, urging them to boycott the Thabal Chongba event organized by a private firm, Project X, on April 5 in Vasant Kunj, South Delhi.<\/p>\n
In a strongly worded statement, the CSOs emphasized that Thabal Chongba is a sacred tradition deeply rooted in Meitei culture and should not be commercialized or treated as mere entertainment. For the past five decades, this traditional dance event has been organized by Manipuri student and youth organizations under the guidance of community elders, primarily as a means of fundraising with nominal entry fees.<\/p>\n
The organizations revealed that they had engaged with the event organizers to explain the cultural significance of Thabal Chongba. However, Project X and its associates, including a few youths from Manipur working in the firm, reportedly displayed little understanding of the tradition and insisted on proceeding with the event despite community objections.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe have never opposed commercial or musical events organized by any group, but traditional events like Thabal Chongba and Lai Haraoba carry deep cultural significance. Holding such an event without adhering to customs and values is disrespectful and sets a dangerous precedent,\u201d the joint statement read.<\/p>\n
Expressing concerns over safety and security, especially for young women attending the event at a private venue, the CSOs also stated that they would not be responsible for any untoward incidents.<\/p>\n
Among the signatories of the appeal are major Meitei organizations, including the Delhi Manipuri Society (DeMas), United Kakching Students (UNIKAS), Manipur Innovative Youth Organisation Delhi (MAIYOND), Manipur Students\u2019 Association Delhi (MSAD), and several others.<\/p>\n
The organizations have urged the Meitei community in Delhi NCR to stand united in preserving the dignity and authenticity of their cultural heritage by boycotting the event.<\/p>\n
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