Manipur's Kangpokpi marks Easter in full spirit and unyielding faith

The Christian community of Kangpokpi, Manipur came together to mark Easter Sunday—Christianity's most sacred observance, symbolizing the resurrection of Jesus Christ and the triumph of life over death.

As dawn broke over Kangpokpi District Headquarters, the air was filled with the pealing of church bells and the uplifting voices of hundreds of worshippers. Clad in white and pastel hues, congregants flooded churches across the region, their hearts steadfast in reverence and celebration despite the surrounding tensions.

Easter, a cornerstone of the Christian faith, commemorates Christ’s resurrection and affirms the promise of eternal life. 

Churches including Kangpokpi Christian Church, Chongthu Baptist Churches Association Centre Church, and the TBA Centre witnessed large gatherings for early morning worship services, which were marked by hymns, fervent prayers, and soul-stirring sermons. Congregants exchanged intricately decorated Easter eggs, prepared by enthusiastic youth from KBC Centre Church and Kangpokpi Independent Baptist Church as tokens of joy and renewal.

In a particularly moving tradition, many worshippers, dressed in white, made their way to the town’s cemetery to solemnly reenact the resurrection, paying tribute through symbolic rituals and heartfelt songs such as “Christ is Risen, Hallelujah, Praise the Lord O My Soul.”

Although communal hymn-singing at noon was suspended for the second consecutive year due to prevailing tensions, the spiritual fervor remained undiminished. Acts of worship and community spirit flourished in homes and churches alike, echoing the message of Easter victory over despair.

At the Christian Revival Church, the celebrations culminated in a grand Easter Feast, an embodiment of biblical fellowship that brought the entire congregation together in a spirit of unity, reflection, and joy. 

The feast, rooted in the tradition of the Last Supper, served as a reminder of the eternal communion believers share through Christ’s resurrection. The celebration concluded with the powerful Lenkhom hymnal session, which continued until 4:30 p.m., enveloping the town in praise and exultation.

This Easter in Kangpokpi was more than a religious observance it was a declaration. A declaration that even amid conflict, the light of faith endures. 

The people of Kangpokpi celebrated not only the resurrection of Christ but also the quiet, steadfast victory of peace over fear and hope over hardship.