Aizawl: The three-day Leitlangpui Music Festival 2026, celebrating Mizoram’s musical heritage, began at Lena Stadium in Serkawn, Lunglei district, on Wednesday, bringing together musicians, independent bands and visitors from across the state and neighbouring regions.
Scheduled from November 11 to 13 under the theme ‘Music Comes Home to Serkawn’, the festival is organised by the Union Ministry of Tourism and the Mizoram Tourism Department, with Bbyanimals as its official event partner.
The event marks a return to Serkawn, a location associated with the development of modern Mizo music and known for the historic Serkawn Concert at Serkawn Sikul.
Addressing the opening ceremony, Mizoram Tourism Minister Lalnghinghlova Hmar 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 said cultural tourism could support livelihoods, strengthen local economies and increase tourism opportunities in Lunglei and southern Mizoram.
Wednesday’s opening day featured an inauguration programme followed by performances by Deborah Ralte, CT Tluangtea, Benjamin Sum, Fenga, Sangtei Khuptong, David Darlong, Lil Kiki and Evenflow.
Thursday’s programme will feature the Leitlangpui Music Festival Band Competition, with 10 finalist bands from Aizawl, Lunglei, Nagaland and Assam each given around 20 minutes to perform.
Avora Records will appear as the guest band, while past competition winners Swordtune (2024) and Knot (2025) will also perform.
The final day on Friday will feature performances by RNZX, Dingtea Guite, Saka, Serkawn Band, Rokhumbeu, Johan, Your Sweetest Memories, Ruatpuii and Triautrackx. The Tourism Minister is also scheduled to address the gathering, followed by a fireworks display to mark the festival’s conclusion.
The festival also features 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, while the event also provides opportunities for businesses involved in hospitality, transportation, food and retail.