Yimkhiung community celebrates Metümnyo festival

Yimkhiung community celebrated the Metümnyo festival with traditional fervour and unity across Shamator, Mokokchung and Kohima on August 8, marking the occasion with cultural presentations, speeches and indigenous games.
In Shamator, the festival was graced by advisor for Youth Resources & Sports, S. Keoshu Yimkhiung, who attended as the special guest. Addressing the gathering, Keoshu highlighted the traditional values embedded in the Metümnyo festival and urged the community to uphold life principles practiced by their forefathers such as truth, simplicity and respect for elders. He extended festive greetings and wished the people a prosperous season ahead.
The significance of Metümnyo was shared by Shophu Khopong, while short speeches were delivered by DC Shamator, Chubatemjen; president of Eastern Nagaland Students’ Federation (ENSF), Nuheymong; and vice president of Yimkhiung Tribal Council (YTC), H. Hanji. A special number was presented by Thrunso, and the vote of thanks was proposed by Yansomong, president of the 11 wards of Shamator Town.
In Mokokchung, the celebration was held at the YBCM Compound, hosted by the Yimkhiung Union Mokokchung (YUM). According to a press release issued by YUM general secretary Y Kiuji, the event featured an address by YUM president Shahoto, who spoke on the purpose and significance of Metümnyo. Highlights included a special presentation by the Yimkhiung Students Union Mokokchung, a cultural folk dance by Yimkhiungperü Mokokchung, and indigenous games that added vibrancy to the occasion.
Meanwhile, in Kohima, the Yimkhiung Union Kohima (YUK) celebrated Metümnyo at the Botanical Garden, New Minister’s Hill. YUK president Akum explained the meaning of the festival, stating that ‘Me’ stands for spirit or soul, ‘Dum’ means wrap, and ‘Neo’ signifies feast. He said the festival is observed after the millet harvest, honouring both life and death, remembering departed souls, and praying for prosperity and unity.
YTC finance secretary Yinkiu, in his address, emphasized the festival’s role in fostering unity, renewing hope, and sharing blessings. He also stressed the importance of using the correct spelling of “Metümnyo.” The welcome address was delivered by YUK vice president Topong, while the vote of thanks was proposed by YUK general secretary Kiutan Simon.