Imphal, Oct. 16: The festival of Mera Houchongba began today across Manipur with its main rituals performed at Kangla in presence of the titular king, Leisemba Sanajaoba.

The festival depicts the age-old brotherhood among the communities of Manipur.

The king held a prayer for the successful completion of the festival and headed a cultural procession, along with his associates. The procession ended at Kangla. Sanajaoba said, "May the celebrations bring love, unity and prosperity among people."

People in traditional attire took part in the procession.

At Kangla, the king performed the mera wayungba ritual by placing a lantern on top of a bamboo pole. By lighting the mera lamp, the people in the valley let the hill dwellers know that they always remember their brothers.

A group called Mera Houchongba Thousil Lup, Sana Konung, organised the celebrations. The hill and valley residents exchange gifts during the festival.

Mera Houchongba is celebrated every year on the full moon day of the mera month according to the Meitei lunar calendar. The Manipuri Hindus worship goddess Laksmi on this day.