Lirola Sangtam wins Miss Kiphire 2026 as the two-day Highland Festival concludes in Kiphire
DIMAPUR — Lirola Sangtam was crowned Miss Kiphire 2026, while Amekali K Sumi and Lino Sumi secured the first and second runner-up positions, respectively, as the two-day Highland Festival 2026 concluded at the Public Ground in Kiphire on October 31.
Held on the theme “Rooted in Resilience, Rising in Grace” on October 30 and 31, the festival brought together culture, music, fashion, tourism, entrepreneurship, and women’s empowerment, according to an update.
The festival was supported by Advisor for Home Guards and Civil Defence, Fire and Emergency Services, Relief and Rehabilitation S Kiusumew Yimchunger, along with the Kiphire district administration and the Department of Industries and Commerce.
The opening programme on October 30 was attended by Additional Deputy Commissioner Longdiba L Sangtam as the special guest, who highlighted the importance of unity, love, and togetherness. Khumpile Ayong, Advisor of Highland Events, delivered opening remarks, noting that the festival aimed to connect cultural traditions with modern opportunities.
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The opening ceremony featured a cultural performance led by Tsarola Y Sangtam and crew, while Dr. Bhem Sapkota, Pastor of Nepali Baptist Church, Kiphire, offered the invocation. Musical presentations were delivered by Leo Thonger, Visa Roths, Lenen Jamir, and Albert Jingru, alongside a screening of 'The Old Ways' featuring Thsalongse.
The second day featured cultural events, a trade show, and capacity-building and marketing programmes sponsored by the Department of Industries and Commerce. YouthNet also facilitated a help desk offering guidance on opportunities for young people.
Attending as special guest on the second day, S Tsaseto Sangtam highlighted the district's tourism potential, including destinations like Zinki River, Singrep Adventure, Mount Saramati, and Mimi Cave. He urged youths to explore tourism opportunities and stressed the importance of tour-guide training to develop professional skills.
The grand finale of Miss Kiphire 2026 included musical performances by KL Pamei, Akhrieze, Tsarola Y Sangtam, and Leo Thonger, alongside the designer round and the Heritage in Style ethnic wear round, culminating in the crowning of Miss Kiphire 2026.