The New Year and seed-sowing festival of the Tangkhul Naga tribe, marking the onset of the agricultural season. Luira Phanit (from 'Lui' = field, 'ra' = dig, 'phanit' = festival) invokes the Almighty's blessings for crops and prosperity. The festival features indigenous games, music, dance, folk performances, and the significant Luithui Khami ritual where the Awunga (chief) and Awungva (chief queen) perform the first seed-sowing, after which villagers are permitted to sow their own seeds.
Why it mattersSignificant cultural and agricultural ritual for the Tangkhul Naga; marks the opening of the new farming year with ceremonial blessings.