Imphal, April 8: Meiteis today celebrated Sajibu Nongma Panba Cheiraoba (New Year) with sumptuous feasts and rituals, praying for a violence-free and peaceful new year.

The festival, one of the most important festivals of the community, is celebrated by every Meitei family with feasts and prayers.

The main highlight of the festival is the food that is offered to the Almighty, asking Him to bless the family with prosperity in the New Year. There are also offerings made for the Almighty to prevent misfortunes and troubles.

For a state which is rocked with violence and strikes, every household performed rituals for a trouble-free New Year. In addition to violence, distrust and tension among communities living in Manipur is also a major concern for all.

Manipur governor V. Shanmuganathan prayed for a better Manipur.

"Manipur has seen some serious social turmoil owing to the differences among communities. Let it be a thing of the past and may the bond of friendship ever grow. On this occasion of Sajibu Nongma Panba, let us re-dedicate ourselves once again to the promotion of friendship and unity among different communities in the state for making a better Manipur," the governor said in his greetings to the people of Manipur.

The outgoing year witnessed the death of a protester in Imphal during an agitation demanding legislations to safeguard the interests of the indigenous people from the huge influx of population, leading to the passing of three bills - Protection of Manipur People Bill, 2015, Manipur Land Revenue and Land Reforms (Seventh Amendment) Bill, 2015, and Manipur Shops and Establishments (Second Amendment) Bill, 2015.

Reacting to the bills, Churachandpur town of Churachandpur district erupted in anger, terming the bills "anti-tribal". During the agitation against the bills, nine protesters died and their bodies are yet to be buried.

"It is an occasion for the people to rejoice and look forward to the future for a better world. Let the occasion be the harbinger for a happy and prosperous life for all the people in the state irrespective of caste, creed or religion," the governor said.

Chief minister Okram Ibobi Singh, in his message, appealed to the people to strengthen the bond of love and brotherhood.

"With the advent of another New Year, let us strive to work hard to bring peace, progress and prosperity in the state," Singh said.

At night, people enjoyed musical concerts and thabal chongba (a dance form) in their respective localities.