Festivals an occasion for reconciliation: Rio

Nagaland chief minister, Dr. Neiphiu Rio, graced the Mungmung-cum-Mini Hornbill Festival held at the local ground in Longkhim on September 3 as special guest, where he called upon the Naga people to preserve and promote their rich cultural heritage.
In his address, Rio emphasised the government’s continuous efforts in promoting traditional values and culture through events such as the Hornbill Festival, Mini Hornbill Festivals and road shows.
He reminded that festivals were not merely for merrymaking but also occasions for reconciliation, unity and spiritual renewal.
Reflecting on the wisdom of forefathers, which he described as “savage wisdom” rooted in hard work and resilience, Rio encouraged the gathering to follow ancestral practices for bountiful harvests and sustainable livelihood.
On the status of the Eastern Nagaland People’s Organisation (ENPO) and their demand for Frontier Nagaland Territory (FNT), Rio urged for understanding and dialogue.
Advisor for IT & Communication, Economics & Statistics and Evaluation, H. Sethrongkyu Sangtam, speaking on behalf of the host, highlighted the cultural and unifying significance of the festival and urged the people to uphold its spirit in unity and progress.
ENPO president A. Chingmak and Sumi Hoho president Dr. Vihoto also delivered short speeches expressing solidarity and cultural pride. The significance of the Mungmung Festival was elaborated by Liodong of Phir Ahi village.
The festival featured a vibrant showcase of traditional performances—male folk dances from Phir Ahi, Chimonger, Chungtor, Tronger and Tsungti Mulong Singrep villages; and female folk dances from Kiding, Angangba, Tsaru and Holongba villages. Demonstrations of traditional games such as fire-making and top-spinning were also presented.
A special song titled “Oh Mungmung” was performed by Shujingla Thonger and Kohjungli Jingru. Earlier, youths of Angangba village demonstrated log drum beating, while women of Chimonger village presented a traditional cotton spinning showcase.
The event commenced with a welcome address by USLP president, K. Aliba Sangtam, followed by invocation prayer by Dr. Longre, pastor of LTBL.