The Melbourne Manipuri community came together on Saturday to celebrate Cheiraoba at the Mount Waverley Community Centre, marking the Meitei New Year with warmth, tradition and a strong sense of belonging.
Cheiraoba, observed every April, marks a new beginning for the Meitei people of Manipur. Much like Baisakhi in Punjab or Poila Boishakh in Bengal, it is a festival that celebrates the solar New Year and the arrival of spring — a time of renewal, hope and harvest.
In Melbourne, the Manipuri diaspora is still small but steadily growing. Like many migrant communities, it remains deeply connected to its roots, while also embracing and sharing its culture in the true spirit of multicultural Australia. That was evident on Saturday, as not just community members but also friends from other backgrounds joined in the celebrations.
This year’s event was hosted by Birendra Singh and his wife Sofia Thokchom. Welcoming guests, Singh spoke about the meaning behind the festival.
He explained that Cheiraoba is a time to strengthen bonds with family, relatives and neighbours. “The belief is that what happens on this day continues throughout the year,” he said. “So people meet loved ones, exchange gifts, share meals and stay happy — so that the rest of the year follows the same way.”
As part of the tradition, families prepare a feast of traditional dishes and first offer food to local deities at the entrance of their homes before serving it to guests.
“As a Meitei, I am very proud to see everyone dressed in traditional attire. It’s a very big day for us,” Singh said. “We have a big feast, and our sisters have all contributed — we are very grateful.”
One of the earliest Meitei settlers in Melbourne, having arrived in 2002, Ajit Singh also reflected on how far the community has come. He expressed happiness at its growing numbers and hoped it would continue to remain close-knit and united.
The day’s program included introductions of new members, followed by a spread of traditional food such as oti, kanghou and nga thongba, along with many other delicacies lovingly prepared by community members.
The celebrations ended on a lively note with Thabal Chongba — literally meaning “dancing in the moonlight.” Traditionally performed during the Yaoshang (Holi) festival, the dance sees participants form circles, hold hands and move rhythmically to drum beats. It is not just a dance but a social tradition, bringing people together in joy and connection.
For many in the room, the evening was a reminder of home — and of the power of community in keeping culture alive, even far away from where it began.
Support independent community journalism. Support The Indian Sun.
Follow The Indian Sun on X | Instagram | Facebook
Support Independent Community Journalism
Dear Reader,The Indian Sun exists for one reason: to tell stories that might otherwise go unheard.
We report on local councils, state politics, small businesses and cultural festivals. We focus on the Indian diaspora and the wider multicultural community with care, balance and accountability. We publish in print and online, send regular newsletters and produce video content. We also run media training programs to help community organisations share their own stories.
We operate independently.
Community journalism does not have the backing of large media corporations. Advertising revenue fluctuates. Platform algorithms change. Costs continue to rise. Yet the need for credible, grounded reporting in a multicultural Australia has never been greater.
When you support The Indian Sun, you support:
• Independent reporting on issues affecting migrant communities
• Coverage of local and state decisions that shape daily life
• A platform for small businesses and community groups
• Media training that builds skills within the community
• Journalism accountable to readers
We cannot cover everything, but we work to cover what matters.
If you value thoughtful reporting that reflects Australia’s diversity, we invite you to contribute. Every donation helps us maintain the quality and consistency of our work.
Please consider making a contribution today.
Thank you for your support.
The Indian Sun Team
