Unlike the many diasporic Indian communities in Melbourne, the Manipuris are just a small drop in the ocean. Yet, it is a group that remains tied to its sense of community.
On Sunday, members of this diaspora celebrated Cheiraoba—a festival that marks the beginning of the traditional New Year in their home state of Manipur in northeast India. Back home, Sajibu Cheiraoba is celebrated in a big way: families clean and decorate their homes, exchange warm greetings, offer prayers, and visit relatives.
At their home in Manor Lakes, a quiet suburb in Melbourne’s southwest, young couple Kelvin Angom and Minolata hosted around 20 members of their close-knit community. To an outsider, it might have seemed like just another gathering—but for those present, the day was charged with emotion and a deep sense of togetherness.
The women arrived in their vibrant traditional finest—elegant phanek wraps paired with delicate innaphi (shawls) draped gracefully.
The feast was a true community affair, with each family bringing their signature touch. It was quite a sensory journey to Manipur—from the earthy aroma of eromba (fermented fish chutney pounded with fiery chillies) to ooti (a simple pea dish, prepared much like dal but with special herbs), to the crispy singju salads, and more. Each bite was more than a flavour; it was a memory.
The Manipuri diaspora comprises a mix of generations—from established professionals who’ve built their lives here over the past 15 years or so, to new students—all bound by the understanding that home is both here and a world away.
“We don’t get to meet often, so this is a lovely way to reconnect,” says Deepika Laimayum, a healthcare professional. “It’s like home away from home—not just the place, but the feeling. There’s something special about touching base with our roots and sharing these traditional dishes.”
Her sentiment is echoed by Valentina Irungdam and Geeteshwari, who lean in with a smile. For Geeteshwari, this was a first—a rare chance to savour the flavours of her childhood. “I barely cook these dishes,” she admits. “And that’s what makes today so special, apart from connecting with everyone.”
“A new beginning, new promises to do better in life—and a perfect time to reconnect,” says host Kelvin, an IT professional. “As a small community, these moments mean everything.”
He is seconded by fellow IT professionals Deepak and Jackson Thounaojam. “It’s also about sharing our culture with others,” Deepak adds. Jackson nods in agreement: “Growing up with such a rich heritage, preserving our roots isn’t just important—it’s essential.”
For students Suzanne and Thouba, Cheiraoba holds special meaning. “It’s our Meitei New Year—a time for new beginnings, just like Kelvin said,” they explain. But Thouba adds with a playful grin, “My only wish? More young folks joining us!”
Ronak, an engineer, cherishes the linguistic familiarity. “Days like this are rare chances to speak Manipuri freely,” he says. “Here, everyone understands—not just the words, but the culture behind them.”
While Manipur has dominated headlines for its protracted crisis—two painful years of conflict in the state—the Meitei community in Melbourne has quietly woven its own narrative of resilience. Between shared plates of eromba and the familiar lilt of Meitei conversations, they rebuild what conflict seeks to fracture: a sense of belonging.
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