Special Correspondent
Ukhrul, Feb 11:
The much-anticipated Lui-Ngai-Ni festival, the traditional seed-sowing festival of the Naga people, is set to be celebrated on February 15, 2025, at Katomei, Se napati. Organized by the State Level Organizing Committee under the aegis of the United Naga Council (UNC) and hosted by the Naga People’s Organization (NPO), this year’s festival carries the theme: “Celebrating Naga’s Cultural Fusion.”
Lui-Ngai-Ni is a sacred and vibrant festival celebrated by the Naga tribes. Rooted in agricultural traditions, it marks the beginning of the new sowing season, symbolizing renewal, gratitude, and blessings for a prosperous harvest. Farmers perform traditional rituals and ceremonies, expressing appreciation for past yields while seeking divine blessings for the upcoming planting season.
A key highlight of the festival is the ritualistic seed sowing, where elders and farmers ceremoniously plant seeds, accompanied by traditional songs and dances. The festival is also a time for community purification, where elders conduct rituals to cleanse the land, forests, and villages from negative energies. Offerings of rice, meat, and vegetables are made to the gods and ancestors, reinforcing the deep spiritual connection between the Naga people and nature.
Beyond its agricultural significance, Lui-Ngai-Ni serves as a cultural extravaganza, showcasing traditional dances, folk music, storytelling, and artistic performances. The event fosters social harmony and unity among different Naga tribes, strengthening bonds through cultural exchange and communal feasting. A special traditional attire parade and cultural fusion night will add grandeur to the festival’s closing ceremony.
This year’s festival will be graced by distinguished leaders, including Minister Awangbow Newmai, MLA Ram Muivah, and MLA Janghemlung, who will inaugurate the event. MLA J. Kumo Sha will be an honored celebrant at the introductory event on February 14, while MLAs Leishiyo and SS Olish will attend the valedictory function. MLA L. Dikho will serve as the official host of Lui-Ngai-Ni 2025.
The ceremonial flag hoisting will be led by Ng Lorho, President of the United Naga Council, while Chief K. Namba of the Maram tribe will oversee the traditional rites, blessings, and distribution of seeds. Former UNC presidents, ex-Naga parliamentarians, and members of the Alternative Arrangement Committee will be among the special invitees, adding to the festival’s prestige.
With over 2,000 delegates expected to participate from various regions, Lui-Ngai-Ni 2025 promises to be a spectacular celebration of Naga heritage, agricultural traditions, and cultural unity. The event will not only highlight the resilience and vibrancy of the Naga people but also serve as a platform for fostering deeper connections among different tribes through shared traditions.
