The Lamklai Kummoi 2025 (Lamklai Festival), a traditional pre-harvest celebration of the Maring community, was held with grandeur at the AMSA Sports Complex, Laiching Kangshang, Tengnoupal District.
Organized by the Lamklai Festival Committee 2025 under the Maring Uparap Assembly (MUA), the event brought together Maring communities and dignitaries to celebrate their rich traditions. MUA President K. Yaima attended as the Chief Host, while Medar Khulpuwa, Kilonser, Ministry of Forest & Environment, GPRN, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. Former Manipur Minister D. Korungthang presided as Function President.
Guests of Honour included Ng. Lorho, President of UNC; D. Thomdok, President of CNPO; and social worker W. Angam Dangsa, along with prominent Naga leaders, CSO representatives, and dignitaries from various Maring villages.
Speaking at the event, Lamklai Festival Committee Convenor D. Meran explained that the community traces its roots to the word “Meiring,” meaning “the place of fire.” The ritual fire (meipa) symbolizes unity, purification, and renewal—an ancient tradition passed down through generations. The festival marks the completion of a year’s agricultural cycle and the preparation for the new one, celebrated with thanksgiving, dance, music, and communal feasting.
Meran also highlighted that the Lamklai Festival is one of the oldest cultural events of the Maring community, strengthening social bonds and showcasing their heritage. The organizing committee appealed to the State Government to recognize the festival officially as a state-level cultural celebration, given its growing participation and significance.
The celebration, which ran from 10:30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., featured two major sessions—a morning cultural program and an evening entertainment segment. Traditional performances, folk songs, and dances of the Maring community provided a vibrant display of indigenous culture and unity.
