Preparations on in full swing for Orange Fest

Tamenglong, Dec 12
With less than a week to go, preparations are on in full swing for the 18th State Level Orange Festival (SLOF) 2025, scheduled to take place from December 17–19 at the Mini Stadium, Tamenglong District Headquarters.
According to officials, preparations at the venue are expected to be completed by Saturday, with a seating capacity for more than 4,000 people. Altogether 200 general stalls and 308 dedicated orange stalls will also be constructed.
Assistant Engineer Pungbatui Newme of the PWD Tamenglong Division, who is overseeing the venue preparations, said the stadium and auxiliary facilities are being readied to handle the expected crowds and event activities.
The festival’s marquee attraction remains the Orange Competition, which will see over 300 growers and exhibitors competing for top honours. A panel of scientist-judges will test entries for taste as well as infestation by pests and diseases. The winning orange will receive a prize of Rs 2,00,000.
Another highlight is the Orange Queen contest, featuring 22 contestants; the winner will receive Rs 1,50,000. Local talent will also feature prominently: “Tamenglong’s Got Talent” will showcase around 30 participants, with the top performer being awarded Rs 50,000.
A three-day entertainment line-up will include performances by The Prophets, GMP and the Band, Leander Kamson, Makok Band, Sori Senjam, Resvalni, Kohensome, Project Anonymous, Mangka Band and other artistes.
A prelude to the festival on December 16 will feature a fashion show, a mini marathon, musical concerts and other entertainment, organisers said. The official program on December 18 will include an orange growers’ awareness session, followed by a beekeeping awareness session on December 19.
Arrangements have been made for homestays for visitors and guests. Additional District Magistrate Chunglenmang Kipgen, who is also the Home Stay chairman, said contact details and booking information are being uploaded to the Orange Festival pages on Facebook and Instagram.
A range of cultural and adventure activities will accompany the festival, including indigenous wrestling, a Tharon Cave expedition, water games at Bamgaijang village, essay and photography competitions.
While infrastructure works are ongoing, the Tamenglong police will handle the security and traffic management.
Authorities have assured that extensive planning and coordination across various departments are in place to ensure the smooth functioning of the festival.
Additionally, the Rongmei Naga Students' Organization, Manipur (RNSOM) has invited all communities to attend the 18th State Level Orange Festival 2025 at Tamenglong Headquarters.
Saying that the festival aims to promote love and peace in the state, RNSOM assured smooth travel and safety with trained volunteers and security forces along the National Highways.
 Notably, it also appealed everyone to wear and showcase their traditional dresses during the festivities.
RNSOM has released the following phone numbers for immediate assistance: 9815441152, 76279289949, 8974569633, 8287693694 and 8258066130.