Manipur's Lui-Ngai-Ni festival had message of peace

Imphal, March 13 (ANI): Lui-Ngai-Ni, the seed sowing festival, was celebrated recently in different parts of Manipur with pomp and gaiety.

Young men and women from Anal, Chothe, Lamkang, Moyon, Monsang, Tarao and Maring Naga tribes performed folk dances and songs at the Maha Union Government High School ground.

According to the Convenor of Lui Ngai Ni Celebration committee, the festival promotes peace, harmony and the Naga culture's identity.

"In this festival, we like to give a strong message, that as our theme say 'Culture of Peace', let every people have peace. We believe in peaceful co-existence, not only Nagas, each and every communities should have peace through culture and through their believes," said Tolkham Maring, the Convenor.

"Lui-Ngai-Ni- Ni is the biggest festival celebrated every year by Nagas. We feel very happy as it is an important festival of Nagas," said Subita, a participant.

The festival is celebrated to seek God's blessing for a bountiful harvest and the general well-being of the people.

People here believe that such festivals help peaceful existence and promote the culture of the state.

"Manipur has many tribes and people in India don't know too much about the state. There are Nagas, Meiteis and others living here. If we join and work together to show our culture to other states of India, people will know more about us," said Stacy, Maring Naga of Manipur.

"Manipur is facing lots of problems both in valley and hilly regions. So, we hopefully pray that the hill and valley people come together and join hands and live happily. Let us make Manipur a better and a peaceful state to live in. That is our prayer," said Ng. Lucy, Monsang Naga, Manipur.

People participated enthusiastically during the celebrations, which provided an opportunity for cultural exchange among the Naga tribes in the state.

Dignitaries, public, and troupes danced together for harmony, peace and unity in Manipur. By L.C.K.Singh (ANI)