Leitlangpui Music Festival 2026 kicks off in Lunglei with regional artists

A three-day Leitlangpui Music Festival 2026 opened on Wednesday, November 11 at Lena Stadium in Serkawn, Lunglei district. Organized by the Union Ministry of Tourism and the Mizoram Tourism Department, the event runs through November 13 under the theme “Music Comes Home to Serkawn”. Northeast Now reported that the festival brings together musicians, independent bands and visitors from across the state and neighbouring regions.

Festival launch

The opening ceremony was addressed by Mizoram Tourism Minister Lalnghinghlova Hmar. He said the festival’s return to Serkawn "offered an opportunity to connect younger generations with the state’s musical roots and give local artists greater exposure". He added that "cultural tourism could support livelihoods, strengthen local economies and increase tourism opportunities in Lunglei and southern Mizoram". The inaugural day featured performances by Deborah Ralte, CT Tluangtea, Benjamin Sum, Fenga, Sangtei Khuptong, David Darlong, Lil Kiki and Evenflow.

Performances and competition

The second day, Thursday, is scheduled to host the Leitlangpui Music Festival Band Competition. Ten finalist bands from Aizawl, Lunglei, Nagaland and Assam will each have around 20 minutes to perform. Avora Records will appear as the guest band, while past competition winners Swordtune (2024) and Knot (2025) are also slated to perform. The final day on Friday will showcase RNZX, Dingtea Guite, Saka, Serkawn Band, Rokhumbeu, Johan, Your Sweetest Memories, Ruatpuii and Triautrackx. The Tourism Minister is set to address the gathering before a fireworks display concludes the festival.

Business and cultural impact

In addition to music, the festival includes food and beverage stalls, commercial exhibitors and displays of traditional handicrafts, handloom products, fashion and lifestyle items. Local entrepreneurs are participating in the marketplace to sell and showcase their products. The event also creates opportunities for businesses involved in hospitality, transportation, food and retail, according to the organizers.

The return of the Leitlangpui Music Festival to Serkawn highlights the area’s historic role in modern Mizo music, notably the historic Serkawn Concert at Serkawn Sikul. By combining performances, a band competition and a commercial fair, the festival aims to promote cultural tourism and support the regional economy throughout its three-day run.