Lui-Ngai-Ni celebrated in Senapati, Chandel
Source: The Sangai Express

Senapati/Chandel, February 15 2017: Senapati district celebrated the seed sowing festival Lui-Ngai-Ni on the theme "Towards a culture of peace" at Katomei Village community hall, Senapati district HQs.

Organized by Naga People's Organization (NPO), the event was graced by ADC Chairman ML Markson and ADC Vice-Chairman T John Hingba as presidium members.

Senapati ADC Members, leaders of Naga frontal bodies, local bodies, village authorities, Church leaders were also present at the programme.

John Hingba said that peace is important in human life.

While highlighting the present issues in the State and Nagaland, he said, "With the celebration of Lui-Ngai-Ni, let the seeds of peace and change be sown." Lui-Ngai-Ni is one of the well preserved cultures of the Naga till today, said Chairman ML Markson.

"As a peace loving people, we, the Nagas should wake up and support the idea of 'Unity and togetherness among the people.

In doing so, progress and development will prevail" he said.

Commenting on the prevailing situation allegedly created by the State Government, Markson condemned the creation of 7 districts by without the knowledge of the Naga leaders.

"Such political blunder could have been averted if the wisdom of the people were taken into account," he quipped.

Vibrant performances like blowing of traditional horns by Poumai Naga tribe, making of traditional fire by Mao Naga Tribe, traditional song by Maram, Zeliangrong and Thangal tribes enthralled the crowd.

Members of UNC, ANSAM, NWU, NPO, SDSA, NPMHR and presidents of all tribes, student leaders of Senapati district and Town Committees, Senapati, village authorities and leaders from different neighbouring villages also attended the programme.

Naga tribes of Chandel district also joined Lui-Ngai-Ni celebration at Maha Union Government Higher Secondary School, Japhou today.

DIG 26 Sector Assam Rifles Brig AS Chauhan, Chandel Naga People's Organisation (CNPO) president Ws Kanral Anal, CNPO ex-president Ng Gilbert, and Naga People's Movement for Human Rights (South) convenor Gina Shangkham graced the occasion as the chief guest, president and guests of honour respectively.

Brig AS Chauhan unfurled the Lui Ngai Ni flag which was followed by blowing of traditional horns.

Besides invoking the Almighty's blessing for bountiful harvest, cultural dances and folk songs of Naga tribes were the main highlights of the celebration.

Speaking at the occasion, Brig AS Chauhan said that the celebration reflects the rich cultural heritage, traditions and unique identity of the Naga people.

"Coming together to celebrate the festival is spell bounding and it also embodies the spirit of oneness and brotherhood," he added.

While wishing a good harvest, the Brigadier also expressed hope that the festival will rekindle the glorious traditions, values and cultures for prosperity of the society and Nation as a whole.

WS Kanral Anal maintained that despite lagging behind other districts in terms of development, Chandel is rich in culture and is one of the diverse districts of the State.

Even though it is a seed sowing festival, Lui Ngai Ni is one of the most spectacular festivals in Manipur as different Naga tribes showcase their respective cultural dances, he added.

He also urged the gathering to preserve and promote the rich cultural heritage handed down by our forefathers.

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