Nagas in Manipur celebrate Lui-Ngai-Ni festival

Lui-Ngai-Ni, a seed sowing festival of the Nagas in Manipur, was celebrated with the theme ‘oneness through culture’ at Tangkhul Naga Long Ground in Ukhrul  district.The event was organised by the United Naga Council and hosted by the Tangkhul Naga Long (TNL), an apex body of the Tangkhul community in Manipur.

Lui-Ngai-Ni is one of the biggest festivals of the Naga community.Folk songs, blowing of Lui-Ngai-Ni trumpet, the beating of drums, lighting of fire, cultural dances and solo performances by different Naga tribes are the highlights of the two-day festival which concluded on Saturday.The Manipur minister for public health engineering, L Dikho, was the chief guest of the festival’s introductory programme on Friday evening.

Local MLA Alfred Kangam Arthur, deputy commissioner Joseph Pauline Kamson of Ukhrul, Autonomous District Council members and civil society organisation (CSO) leaders were also present on the occasion.The main function, which was held on Saturday, was attended by tribal affairs and hills minister N Kayisii as the chief guest.The function was also attended by MLAs Awangbou Newmai (Tamei), Khashim Vashum (Chingai), K Leishiyo (Phungyar), D Korungthang (Tengnoupal), ADC members and CSO leaders.

Lok Sabha MP (Outer) Lorho S Pfoze was the chief guest of the valedictory function of the celebration on Saturday evening.Manipur chief minister N Biren Singh, Assembly speaker Yumnam Khemchand, Lok Sabha MP RK Ranjan, works minister Th Biswajit on Friday wished the people, especially the Naga brethren on the occasion.In their greetings, the state leaders said the festival showcases the rich cultural heritage and strengthens the bond of unity among different communities residing in the state.