Interfaith gathering in Imphal unites communities for peace and reconciliation amidst Manipur strife

The Archdiocese of Imphal, serving the northeastern Indian state of Manipur, hosted an interfaith gathering on December 14 to mourn the loss of lives and pray for reconciliation among conflicting communities in the strife-torn region.

The event, part of a nationwide initiative titled “Mourning and Forgiveness for Manipur,” took place in Imphal, the state capital, and brought together over 100 participants representing diverse faiths and spiritual communities.

The gathering featured prayers, meditation, and artistic expressions of solidarity aimed at healing the wounds inflicted by months of ethnic violence in Manipur.

\Leaders and representatives from Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Jainism, Islam, and Sanamahi traditions, along with spiritual groups such as ISKCON (International Society for Krishna Consciousness), the Divine Life Society, and the Brahmakumaris, united to advocate for peace and harmony.

Participants offered prayers for the victims of violence and expressed sympathy for survivors grappling with pain and loss.

Artistic performances, including peace songs and symbolic paintings, conveyed messages of hope, forgiveness, and reconciliation, resonating deeply with the audience.

A key moment of the event was the launch of the Manipur Peace Fund, an initiative aimed at fostering peacebuilding and conflict resolution among the youth.

\The program encourages supporters nationwide to contribute one rupee a day, underlining the power of collective action in creating a culture of peace and understanding.

“Today, we stand united not just in our grief but in our commitment to create a better future for all. The violence must end, and we must work tirelessly to rebuild trust and harmony among our communities,” said Father Vialo Francis of the Imphal Archdiocese during his address.

This interfaith gathering was part of a series of nationwide events promoting healing and reconciliation amidst the ongoing ethnic conflict between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities, which erupted on May 3, 2023.

Through shared prayers, collaborative initiatives, and messages of hope, the event highlighted the collective resolve to rebuild Manipur as a peaceful and inclusive society.