Nagas come as one for Lui-Ngai-Ni at Ukhrul

Ukhrul, Feb 15 (DIO)
Lui-Ngai-Ni 2026 which is a seed sowing festival of the Naga community was celebrated today at Ukhrul headquarters ground.
The festival was organised by the State Level Organising Committee under the aegis of the United Naga Council (UNC) on the theme - “Cultural Renaissance.” The event was hosted by the Tangkhul Naga Long (TNL).  
The celebration was graced by Nagaland Chief Minister and NPF president,  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.
Speaking at the festival, Rio 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 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 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.
Tangkhul Naga Awunga Long president Kashung Tennyson blessed the seeds to be sown and distributed seeds to all 21 Naga tribe presidents at the beginning of the programme.
The Rongmei tribe won the lighting of 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 inaugural function was also attended by Tamei A/C MLA Awangbou Newmai as the principal celebrant; Ukhrul A/C MLA Ramnganing Muivah and Karong A/C MLA J Kumo Sha  as the honoured celebrant.
Chingai A/C MLA Khashim Vashum was the chief host while Phungyar A/C MLA Leishiyo Keishing was the valedictory guest.