Shirui Lily fest set to return after 2 years amid tight security in restive Manipur | India News
GUWAHATI: Manipur’s Shirui Lily fest is set to return Tuesday after a two-year pause, signalling efforts toward peace in a state scarred by ethnic unrest.The fest, set from May 20-24, celebrates the state flower Shirui Lily found only in Shirui Hills of Tangkhul Naga-majority Ukhrul district. The fest marks the 75th anniversary of Lilium mackliniae‘s (Shirui Lily) recognition by Royal Horticultural Society London. It also serves as a litmus test for security in a region under President’s rule.Roughly 2,000 security personnel have been deployed, covering six venues across four villages, with multi-layered protection along the route passing through Kuki areas. Police launched heightened security measures after Meiteis planning to attend reported online threats from accounts allegedly linked to Kuki groups.
