Seasonal Festivals — Hindu Sacred Festival
Sajibu Cheiraoba
Sajibu Cheiraoba is the Manipuri New Year festival celebrated on the first day of Sajibu (Chaitra), the first month of the Meitei calendar. It is one of the most important festivals of the Meitei people of Manipur. The day begins with prayers and offerings to household deities Sanamahi and Leimarel Sidabi. Families climb the nearest hilltop together, symbolizing the ascent towards prosperity and a better future. The festival blends ancient Meitei Sanamahism traditions with later Hindu influences.
Last updated: 24 April 2026 · Source: Vedic Tradition
Significance
Sajibu Cheiraoba marks the beginning of a new cycle of life and ushers in prosperity. The hilltop climb represents leaving behind the old year and ascending towards new opportunities. Offerings to Sanamahi (the supreme household deity) and Leimarel Sidabi (the goddess of the household) invoke blessings for family welfare and agricultural abundance.
Rituals & Traditions
Offer special dishes (chak-hao kheer, nga-thongba) to Sanamahi and Leimarel Sidabi at the household shrine. Clean and decorate the home. Dress in traditional Meitei attire (phanek, innaphi). Climb the nearest hilltop as a family. Prepare and share festive meals. Perform Lai Haraoba (deity propitiation dance). Visit temples and seek blessings.
Traditional Foods
FAQ
Q.What is Sajibu Cheiraoba?
Sajibu Cheiraoba is the Manipuri New Year festival celebrated on the first day of Sajibu (Chaitra), the first month of the Meitei calendar. It is one of the most important festivals of the Meitei people of Manipur. The day begins with prayers and off...
Q.What is the significance of Sajibu Cheiraoba?
Sajibu Cheiraoba marks the beginning of a new cycle of life and ushers in prosperity. The hilltop climb represents leaving behind the old year and ascending towards new opportunities. Offerings to Sanamahi (the supreme household deity) and Leimarel Sidabi (the goddess of the household) invoke blessings for family welfare and agricultural abundance.
Q.What are the rituals of Sajibu Cheiraoba?
Offer special dishes (chak-hao kheer, nga-thongba) to Sanamahi and Leimarel Sidabi at the household shrine. Clean and decorate the home. Dress in traditional Meitei attire (phanek, innaphi). Climb the nearest hilltop as a family. Prepare and share festive meals. Perform Lai Haraoba (deity propitiation dance). Visit temples and seek blessings.
Q.What foods are made during Sajibu Cheiraoba?
Chak-hao Kheer (black rice pudding), Nga-thongba (fish curry), Eromba, Singju (salad), Kangshoi, Chamthong