Luira Phanit begins with cultural fervour
Source: Chronicle News Service / R Lester Makang
Ukhrul, February 15 2024:
The Hunphun Luira Phanit 2024, an annual seed sowing festival, kicked off on Thursday in Hunphun village with much cultural zest and fanfare.
The five-day festival, marks the beginning of the seed sowing season, apart from offering the villagers a time of cultural festivities.
On Thursday, the festival began with the village chief HA Khayaiwo performing customary rituals 'Awungashi Rukthang' and Luikathui at his house, signalling the start of the festival.
This was followed by the hoisting of the festival flag.
The village chief, along with other elders and members of the village, gathered in colourful traditional attires and prayed for a bountiful harvest in the current year.
Key highlights of the festival are cultural events including Laa Khanganui, Thingrei-ra Khangakhun, Khangatuk and Rai Khangathat, Ngaphat Ngayat, Hao Laa (Trio), Lungchan Laa (Solo/Duet) and Choreography, Zeipa Kaphar and others.
These events are a display of traditional songs, dances, and music, which have been passed down from generation to generation.
In addition to the cultural events, there will also be an indigenous seed competition as part of the festival.
This competition aims to promote and preserve the traditional seeds of the village, which have been cultivated for centuries and hold great value in their culture.
As another highlight of the festival, popular stand-up comedian, Pakmi Mahong, and Worleichan A Shimray will host the Hunphun Luira Nite, an entertainment event that is sure to leave the audience in splits.