Yaosang 2023

Yaoshang is a traditional festival celebrated in the Indian state of Manipur. It is a five-day festival that usually falls in February or March and is marked by various religious and cultural activities. The festival is celebrated to mark the arrival of spring and is a time for people to come together to celebrate and give thanks for the past year's blessings.

During Yaoshang, people visit each other's homes, sing and dance to traditional music, light bamboo poles and perform various other rituals. The festival is known for its vibrant and colourful celebrations featuring traditional music, dance, and food.

When is Yaosang Day in 2023? 

Yaoshang Day, a traditional festival celebrated in the Indian state of Manipur, will be celebrated from March 7 to March 8, 2023. The five-day festival marks the arrival of spring and features vibrant cultural activities, such as music, dance, and food. It is a time for people to come together to celebrate and offer a sense of gratitude for the past year's blessings.

Yaosang Day: Observances

Yaosang Day is observed over five days, starting from the full moon day of the Hindu month of Phalguna, which falls in February or March in the Gregorian calendar. During this time, various cultural and religious activities take place, including:

• Thabal Chongba: A traditional dance performed by young men and women in a circular formation, accompanied by music and singing.
• The lighting of bamboo poles: Bamboo poles are erected at the centre of a village or a neighbourhood and are lit to symbolise the defeat of evil forces.
• Offerings and prayers: People offer prayers and make offerings at their local temples, seeking blessings and protection for their families and communities.
• Feasts and gatherings: People visit each other's homes, share meals, and participate in community gatherings.

History  of Yaosang

The exact origin of Yaoshang is still being determined, but the festival is believed to have been celebrated in Manipur for several centuries. It is believed to have originated as a Hindu festival and was later adopted by the Meitei community, who are primarily Hindu.

According to legend, Yaosang was first observed to celebrate the victory of Lord Krishna over the demon king Narakasura. Another popular belief is that the festival was started to honour and seek the blessings of the Hindu deity Thangjing, considered the patron of health and wellbeing.

Over the years, Yaosang has evolved and become an important cultural and social event in Manipur. It is a time for people to come together and celebrate the arrival of spring and participate in various cultural and religious activities unique to the region. Today, Yaosang is celebrated with much fanfare and enthusiasm in Manipur and other parts of India and is an integral part of the region's cultural heritage.