Ukhrul, October 31: The Liangmai Naga Tribe Successfully Organized the 10th State Level Chaga Ngee at Chiang Village, Tamenglong, under the theme “Chengriak Se Agu Machen Ne” on Thursday.
The Chaga Ngee is one of the most significant indigenous post-harvest festivals celebrated by the Liangmai in the month of Chaga Hui equated to the month of October in present time.
The Chaga Ngee is considered as a festival of sanctification, purification of society especially the warriors, thanksgiving and determination of individual lucks through omens as indicated by Npeng kepbo/Phenbou. It is rather a festival of seeking blessing from Tingwang, the supreme God by the tribe.
The vibrant celebration of Chaga Ngee 2025 was marked by cultural unity and spirited participation, drawing over 2,500 attendees as per reports from across the Liangmai community. The event was graced by a host of distinguished guests, including Shri Awangbow Newmai, Hon’ble MLA, as the Chief Guest; Shri D. Gombui, Apai Chairman, LNC, as the Chief Host; and Shri D. Meidinbui, SDO Tamenglong; Lakpui Renee Newmai, SDO Tamei; and Mr. Joseph Riamei, PRO to the Hon’ble MLA, as Special Guests.
The celebration began with the Chaga Ngee Blessing, led by Rev. Maishoungamang Abonmai, President of LNBA-M, accompanied by over 30 pastors who invoked blessings upon the festival and the community. A brief yet insightful history of Chaga Ngee was presented by Mr. Disubou Wijunamai, who served as the Resource Person for the occasion.
Addressing the gathering, Hon’ble MLA Awangbow Newmai underscored the importance of mutual encouragement and the preservation of the Liangmai people’s rich cultural heritage. He recalled that the Government of Manipur officially recognized Chaga Ngee as a restricted holiday in 2021, reaffirming its cultural significance. The MLA urged everyone to continue promoting and safeguarding their identity for future generations.
One of the major highlights of the celebration was the Miss Chaga 2025 Contest, organized in collaboration with Benwang Fashion. Ms. Wimarialiu Newmai from Tamei Headquarters was crowned Miss Chaga 2025, while Ms. Maningsiliu Dirinamai of Liangchi Village and Ms. Maihuliu Daimai of Malek were declared 1st Runner-Up and 2nd Runner-Up, respectively. Adding glamour to the event, Ms. Tsurila, Miss Grand India 3rd Runner-Up 2025, served as one of the judges for the contest.
With enthusiastic participation from church elders, youth, and well-wishers, the celebration stood as a proud testament to the unity, identity, and enduring traditions of the Liangmai people, making Chaga Ngee 2025 a memorable success.