Lui-Ngai-Ni 2023: Date, History, Interesting Facts about Manipur

Lui-Ngai-Ni is observed annually on February 15 in the northeastern Indian state of Manipur. This rural celebration is aimed to unite the various Naga tribes in the state. Even though Lui-Ngai-Ni is a significant celebration in the state of Manipur, persons who reside outside of the state are quite unlikely to observe it. On this day, schools, offices, and businesses in Manipur may be closed. Midway through the 1980s, Lui-Ngai-Ni became an iconic event among Naga tribes, and since 1998 it has been a state holiday in Manipur. Happy Lui-Ngai-Ni to all celebrants!

HISTORY OF LUI-NGAI-NI

Lui-Ngai-Ni is an agricultural celebration. Manipur’s Naga tribes commemorate this festival of spreading seeds. The Naga live in the northeastern regions of India and Myanmar’s northwest, with a major population in Manipur. Lui-Ngai-Ni is an event for the Naga tribes of Manipur to commemorate their rich cultural history and enhance Naga unity. Nagas of Manipur include Mao, Tangkhul, Moyon, Anal, Tarao, Chothe, Koireng, Thangal, Puimei, Monsang, Lamkang, Chiru, Kharam, Maram, Poumai, Zeme, Liangmai, Rongmei, and Maring.

However, what does Lui-Ngai-Ni mean? Interestingly, the festival’s name is composed of three indigenous words. The name reflects a rich heritage, as it is composed of three words from three distinct Naga languages! ‘Lui’ is a condensed form of the Tangkhul word ‘Luiraphanit,’ which means’seed sowing festival,’ while ‘ngai’ is the Rongmei word for ‘festival.’ In the Mao language, ‘ni’ also means’seed planting festival’ This event is observed by praying to the god of agriculture for the health of the sown seeds. The celebration is observed in anticipation of a bountiful harvest.

The Lui-Ngai-Ni festival incorporates numerous cultural activities. People celebrate the occasion by donning traditional attire, beating drums, and dancing to traditional music. The day is full with joyfulness. Lui-Ngai-Ni is observed in all Naga-inhabited regions of Manipur, and the primary celebration alternates between the state’s principal Naga district centres.

The festival’s traditions are steeped in age-old customs and are observed by nearly every Naga. Also, now is an excellent time to visit the state of Manipur.

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5 INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT MANIPUR

• The name Manipur has a secret meaning: it means “a place of diamonds” or “the region of jewels.”
• Manipur is said to be the abode of the dancing spirits, or Gandharvas.
• It is home to Keibul Lamjao National Park, which is the only floating national park in the world.
• The polo field is the oldest in the world, dating back to the 14th century.
• Before entering Manipur, both domestic and international tourists must submit an application for a visit permission.

LUI-NGAI-NI DATES

Year	Date	Day
2023	February 15	Wednesday
2024	February 15	Thursday
2025	February 15	Saturday
2026	February 15	Sunday
2027	February 15	Monday