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FESTIVALS · MANIPUR · FEBRUARY

Manipur festivals in February.

2 festivals this month — dates, locations, and travel tips.

Gaan-Ngai

Tamenglong

The New Year and post-harvest festival of the Zeliangrong people (Zeme, Rongmei, Liangmai, Inpui tribes). Gaan-Ngai lasts five days and marks the closing of the old year and arrival of the new one. The festival carries hopes for peace and prosperity.

February 15 (Lui-Ngai-Ni universal date for Zeliangrong)

Luira Phanit

Ukhrul

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.

February 15 (Lui-Ngai-Ni, the universal Naga date), also celebrated Jan-Mar depending on village traditions

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