- 21 January every year
- Full state since 1972
- Capital Imphal
Where it began
Manipur was a kingdom with a long history before it joined India in 1949. In 1956 it became a Union Territory, governed from the centre.
The North-Eastern Areas (Reorganisation) Act of 1971 changed the map of the region. Under this law Manipur, Meghalaya and Tripura all became full states on 21 January 1972, so the three states share the same statehood day.
Statehood gave Manipur its own elected assembly and government, and the day is a time to remember the long road to it.
How it grew over time
1949
Manipur joins the Union of India.
1956
Manipur becomes a Union Territory.
21 January 1972
Manipur becomes a full state with Imphal as its capital.
Today
The state marks the day with official functions and cultural programmes.
How it is celebrated in different places
Imphal
Flag hoisting, speeches, awards and cultural shows mark the main function.
Hill and valley districts
Schools and local groups hold dances, songs and sports.
Manipuri communities outside the state
Groups in Delhi, Bengaluru and abroad meet for food, music and dance.
Manipur Statehood Day today
People share greetings and celebrate the culture of Manipur, from Manipuri dance and the Pung Cholom drum dance to traditional games and food. It is also a day to honour the people who built the state.
