Lui-Ngai-Ni 2026 which is a seed sowing festival of the naga community was celebrated on Sunday at Ukhrul Headquarters Ground, Ukhrul district. The festival was organized by the State Level Organizing Committee under the aegis of the United Naga Council on the theme – “Cultural Renaissance.” The event was hosted by the Tangkhul Naga Long. The celebration was graced by the presence of Chief Minister of Nagaland and President of NPF, Central, Dr. Neiphiu Rio as the Chief Guest; and Deputy Chief Minister of Manipur, Losii Dikho as the Guest of Honour. The Lui-Ngai-Ni 2026 Monolith was unveiled by the Chief Guest during the inaugural function.
Dr. Neiphiu Rio, while addressing his grand speech, stated that the purpose of Lui-Ngai-Ni celebration is not merely to observe a festival but to remember the forefathers who planted seeds, not only in the soil but in collective souls, to renew bonds with one another and to pray for abundance in the fields. He further added that the celebration of Lui-Ngai-Ni must also be marked as a reminder that before growth begins, there must be reflection; before progress, there must be unity; and before abundance, there must be faith. Addressing the gathering, Losii Dikho urged the Naga community to continue advocating for peace in the state. As a Naga, one must refrain from violence but rather bridge the gap between communities to peacefully live together, he added.
President of Tangkhul Naga Awunga Long, Kashung Tennyson blessed the seeds to be sown and distributed seeds to all 21 Naga tribe presidents at the beginning of the program. The Rongmei tribe won the lighting of the fire competition, which is a part of the festival, and took the privilege of lighting the Lui-Ngai-Ni torch. The event also featured the blowing of a buffalo horn by Guru Rawung AS, indigenous wrestling by the Poumai Naga tribe, cultural dance by the Yimkhiung Tribal Council and many other vibrant performances.
The inuagural function was also attended by MLA, 52-Tamei (ST) A/C, Awangbou Newmai as the Principal Celebrant; MLA, 44-Ukhrul (ST) A/C, Ramnganing Muivah and MLA, 47-Karong (ST) A/C, J. Kumo Sha as the Honoured Celebrants; MLA, 45-Chingai (ST) A/C, Khashim Vashum as the Chief Host; and MLA, 43-Phungyar (ST) A/C, Leishiyo Keishing as the Valedictory Guest.
