The Mr and Miss Chang 2026 pageant was successfully held on January 13 at the Parade Ground, Tuensang Town, in celebration alongside the traditional Poanglüm Festival. Organised by the Chang Sao Thangjam Setshang ( Chang Women Organization), the event witnessed vibrant participation, cultural pride, and enthusiastic public support.
Hanhong Kangshou, Contestant No. 1 from Ngangpong Village, was crowned Mr Chang 2026, while the title of Miss Chang 2026 was awarded to Lanu Lemla, Contestant No. 11 from Noksen Village.
This year’s pageant was held under the theme “Lanshedbü Müttao”, meaning “a youth who shines among his/her peers,” highlighting leadership, confidence, and character among Chang youth.
During the final round, the common question for the female top five contestants was: “ What according to you should be the role and responsibilities of our leaders in the recent context?”
Answering the question, Miss Chang 2026 Lanu Lemla stated that leaders today must understand and respect the opinions and views of others, uphold togetherness, embrace cultural diversity and individuality, and remain firm in their values and ideas.
The question for the male finalists was: “Do you think leadership is about authority or responsibility? Explain with reference to our society.”
Mr Chang 2026 Hanhong Kangshou, in his winning response, emphasized that leadership is carried through responsibility. He stated that leaders are chosen by the people and must fulfill their expectations and trust through responsibility, care, and service to society.
The Special Guest, Yingphe Konyak, President of the Eastern Nagaland Women Organisation, in her address, said that the event was not merely about celebrating beauty but about confidence, courage, and character. She highlighted that beauty pageants serve as platforms to be seen, heard, and to stand proudly in one’s identity. She encouraged contestants to believe in themselves, lead with integrity, and use their voices for positive change, reminding them that true victory lies in confidence and self-worth rather than crowns.
In the Miss Chang 2026 category the 1st Runner-Up was bagged by Sangli Tola (Chingmei Village) and 2nd Runner-Up by Tonchingyangmai (Saoshou Village). In the Mr Chang 2026 category, 1st Runner-Up was bagged by M. Ongmang Lakba (Litem Village) and 2nd Runner-Up by Topong Sangmei R. (Chingmelen Village)
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The event was further witnessed performances from local artists including Benjongkhumla, Blackdiary (Changlim), Sangmaichila, Auching, and B. Hongsa Yemjong, stand-up comedian, adding entertainment and cultural vibrancy to the celebration.
Subtitle Awards
Male Category:
- Mr Congeniality: Contestant No. 4 – Pushing Choba
- Mr Talented: Contestant No. 8 – Yongkong Sangle
- Mr Photogenic: Contestant No. 2 – Matten Nongba
- Mr Best Physique: Contestant No. 6 – Aben Chuba Chang
Female Category:
- Miss Congeniality: Contestant No. 6 – Tonching Sangla
- Miss Photogenic: Contestant No. 7 – Nokisangla K.
- Miss Talented: Contestant No. 3 – Welentola
- Miss Best Ramp Walk: Contestant No. 1 – Tonchingyangmai
