CHURACHANDPUR: The first Mizo Integration Cultural Festival 2026, themed “Integration through Culture,” was held at Saikot Ground in Churachandpur, Manipur, on Thursday, bringing together communities of Zo descent to celebrate their shared cultural heritage.
The main event marked the culmination of the two-day festival, which was formally inaugurated on Wednesday evening by Paolienlal Haokip, MLA of 59-Saikot Assembly Constituency, in the presence of the president of Mizo Zirlai Pawl (MZP) General Headquarters.
Thursday’s programme was graced by C. Lalsawivunga, minister of arts and culture, Government of Mizoram, as chief guest. Lalmuanpuia Punte, MLA and political advisor to the chief minister of Mizoram, attended as guest of honour, while R. Lalngheta, president of the Central Young Mizo Association (YMA), presided over the function. L.M. Khaute, MLA of 58-Churachandpur Assembly Constituency, attended as chief host.
Organised by the Mizo Integration Council (MIC), the festival featured speeches by invited guests, special musical performances, cultural dances representing different tribes of the Zo-Nahthlak or Zo-descendant communities, and a cultural parade.
Addressing the gathering ahead of the programme, Hrila, chairman of the MICF organising committee, said the festival aimed to promote the physical integration of Zo-descendant communities through cultural and other collective initiatives.
He also thanked the participants for their involvement and cooperation in making the festival a success.
In his address, chief guest C. Lalsawivunga congratulated the organising committee for creating a platform to promote Mizo integration. He said culture and tradition define a community and called for efforts to protect and preserve the cultural heritage passed down by forefathers through generations.
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He also highlighted the need to adapt cultural practices to a changing world shaped by technological advancements, while maintaining the responsibility of collectively preserving the heritage for future generations.
The festival will conclude on Thursday night with a musical concert at Saikot Ground. Chinlunthang, MLA of 60-Singngat Assembly Constituency, will attend as chief guest, while Letzamang Haokip, MLA of Henglep Assembly Constituency, will be the guest of honour.
Popular singers from Mizoram, including Mendal, Siampuii Ralte, David Darlong and Hmangaihi, along with local artistes, are scheduled to perform at the concert.
