In a remarkable celebration of India’s cultural plurality, Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University (A Central University), Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India, successfully celebrated its 1st Northeast Cultural Fest on May 5, 2026, bringing together over 1,100 students, faculty members, and distinguished guests in a vibrant showcase of the traditions of the Northeastern states.
The event was held under the chief patronage of the Hon’ble Vice Chancellor, Prof. Raj Kumar Mittal, who, in his presidential address, lauded the initiative as a significant step toward strengthening cultural bonds. Highlighting the rapid development and growing global engagement of the Northeast under the Act East Policy, he emphasized that celebrating cultural heritage is crucial to promoting national unity and encouraging academic and cultural exchange. He further advised the university’s Northeast fraternity to continue organizing such festivals to reinforce the spirit of unity in diversity.
The Chief Guest, Dr. Bonik Chandra Brahma (IFS), Additional Principal Chief Conservator of Forests, Eastern Zone, Gorakhpur Region, Uttar Pradesh, delivered an insightful address on the rich and unique cultural diversity of the Northeastern states. He spoke of the region’s numerous tribes, distinct dialects, and vibrant traditions, while underlining the importance of adapting to changing times without losing touch with one’s cultural roots. The programme convenor, Dr. Somipam R. Shimray welcomed the gathering and described the fest as more than just a cultural event. He termed it a meaningful initiative aimed at promoting unity in diversity, facilitating cultural exchange, and deepening understanding of the traditions, art, and music of Northeast India. The event was attended by several senior faculty members, including Prof. Sunita Mishra, Prof. Victor Babu, Prof. Ram Chandra, and Prof. Shilpi Verma, among others.
A rich cultural programme formed the highlight of the fest, featuring traditional dances, folk music, ethnic fashion shows, and indigenous cuisines. The audience was enthralled by performances such as the Ao Naga song “Itaya Nungu,” the documentary paradise unexplored on the Northeastern states, the Manipuri dance “Khamba Thoibi Jagoi,” Assamese Borgeet and Bihu performances along with Missing and Tiwa dances, the Dimasa song “Ning Phaipinshang,” Arunachali and Tripuri “Lebang Boomani” dances, and the Mizo song “Nang ngaih a zual.” A colourful costume presentation representing 25 tribes further added to the grandeur of the event. The fest concluded on a high note, receiving widespread appreciation from attendees for its scale, inclusivity, and cultural significance. Participants hailed it as a commendable initiative that not only celebrated the diversity of India’s Northeastern states but also strengthened the fabric of national unity. There are 150 North East students studying different courses in Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University (A Central University).
