Cultural spectacle beckons at Hunphun Luira
Source: Chronicle News Service / R Lester Makang

Ukhrul, February 14 2025: Promising a rich blend of traditional and modern elements, Hunphun village is set to kick-start a week-long celebration for its Lu-ira Phanit 2025 at Mission Ground, Alungtang.

The seed-sowing festival will be held under the theme 'Khokha Raokha', symbolising the enduring unity of the villagers.

Announcing this in a press conference held at the Hunphun Shanao Long conference hall, Awontang on Friday, Hunphun Luira Organising Committee convenor Wungsorin Ragui said that the festival will officially run from February 14 to 19 .

Cultural spectacle beckons at Hunphun Luira

However, as February 14 marks the 'Sa Kathi Zimiksho' (eve), major events will commence on February 15, with the headman performing traditional rituals, 'Awungshi Rukthang kala Luikathui', to mark the beginning of a new agricultural season.

Joined by co-convenor Timwon L Shimray, secretary Yarthotchui Shaiza, and event partners Yuimirin L Shimray and Nobert Khayi, Wungsorin expressed the committee's intention to honour village elders beginning from this year's celebration, reviving the age-old practice of acknowledging their leadership in the festivities, a tradition that has waned in recent years.

Noting that Luira Phanit is a much valued cultural festival handed down through generations, Wungsorin said that its true spirit should be maintained.

He, nevertheless, raised concerns over the trend of inviting only VIPs as chief guests, stating the same could diminish the festival's true essence.

"Noting this, we are committed to reverse this trend by inviting village elders to be chief guests for all events, as a mark of customary respect," he stated.

A major highlight of the festival will be 'Yorla Khangakom' on February 16, a traditional feast inviting women married outside the village, Wungsorin announced, adding "We will revive this tradition after nearly two decades and warmly invite all our 'Yorlas' and their families to join the celebration" .

He further disclosed that the festival programme includes a variety of traditional events such as Zeipha Kaphar, Thingneira Khangakhun, Raikhangathat, Hao Laa, Ngaphat-ngayat, Kashiro tuiphut, and Khangatuk, alongside an essay competition and sporting activities.

The festival will also promote eco-friendly practices under the slogan 'No to Litter', aiming to preserve traditional values while protecting the environment.

All residents of the district headquarters are encouraged to participate in this cultural celebration, he added.

According to Yarthotchui and Timwon, primary aim of Luira Phanit is to preserve traditional practices by instilling these values in the younger generation.

The festival will feature several special attractions, including Luira Night, Hunphun's Got Talent, a marathon, and the Miss Luira pageant, all scheduled for February 17, 18, and 19.Chipping in, Nobert shared that 11 contestants have been selected during auditions for the upcoming Hunphun's Got Talent - Session 5 .

"The next stage will involve an elimination round, with the semi-final and grand finale taking place'at Mission Ground on the final day of the festival," he added.

Yuimirin also announced that Luira Night will be organised in collaboration with the Tangkhul Music Forum, showcasing a variety of popular Tangkhul music bands and artistes.