Poulea village celebrates first-ever Laonii Festival to promote unity and cultural heritage
Source: The Sangai Express

Senapati, July 18 2026: Poulea Village in Senapati district on Friday began its first-ever three-day Laonii Festival, marking the completion of the sowing and cultivation season while celebrating the rich cultural heritage of the Poumai community.

The festival, being held from July 17 to 19 under the theme "Where Every Seed Tells a Story," is part of the traditional post-plantation celebrations observed across Senapati district known as Laonii among the Poumai, Saleni among the Mao, and Pung-ngii among the Maram communities.

The inaugural programme was attended by former Poumai Naga Union (PNU) Social and Cultural Secretary BL Kavisii as chief guest and SDO/BDO Paomata and Assistant Commissioner to the Deputy Commissioner, Senapati, M Sheveine, as guest of honour.

Welcoming the gathering, Poulea Village Chairman Th Jotham said the festival was being celebrated collectively by the village for the first time and expressed hope that it would strengthen unity, cooperation and shared prosperity among the residents.

Addressing the gathering, M Sheveine described Laonii as a festival that brings people together and strengthens community bonds.

She noted that although Poulea is a hamlet under Khabung Karong and not a revenue village, it is home to people from different parts of Poumai land, including Chilivai, Lepaona and Paomata, who live together in harmony.

Drawing inspiration from the significance of Laonii.

she said the festival symbolises rest and celebration after months of hard work, just as life's struggles are often forgotten once success is achieved.

She called on the younger generation to become role models and contribute towards building a stronger and more prosperous society.

In his address, chief guest BL Kavisii described Laonii as one of the most significant festivals of the Poumai community, symbolising sanctification and purification of menfolk.

He said the festival serves as a reminder of the values upheld by their forefathers, including honesty, generosity, hospitality and integrity.

Stressing that society flourishes only when such values are preserved, Kavisii urged everyone to engage in self-reflection and uphold moral principles.

He also noted that Poulea village is home to people from 26 different villages and appealed to residents to continue fostering unity, mutual respect and cultural identity while strengthening their spiritual lives.

The inaugural programme featured traditional dance performances by members of the Poulea Youth and Students' Organisation, showcasing the community's rich cultural heritage.

Villagers also participated enthusiastically in the Laonii Lou competition, while volleyball tournaments for men and women and a women's tug-of-war competition formed part of the festival celebrations.

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