Pochury community celebrates Yemshe in Meluri and Kohima

Pochury community celebrated its premier festival, Yemshe cum Mini Hornbill, at Meluri on October 3 and in Kohima on October 4.
In Meluri, advisor for Urban Development & Municipal Affairs, Zhaleo Rio, graced the celebration as the special guest.
Observed annually from October 1 to 5, Yemshe marks the end of a season of hard work and the hope for a bountiful harvest. Addressing the gathering, Zhaleo Rio emphasized that prosperity must be earned through labour and dispelled the notion of harvest without effort.
Advisor for New & Renewable Energy and NSDMA, Z. Nyusietho Nyuthe, who hosted the festival, described Meluri as the “Land of Fortunes,” citing its rich natural resources and potential for economic development.
Earlier, welcome addresses were delivered by Pochury Hoho president Chonpa Curry and Deputy Commissioner of Meluri, K. Mhathang Tsanglao. The programme was compered by Jitsiarho Po and Kuojirhongu Kajiri.
Meanwhile, the Pochury Hoho Kohima (PHK) celebrated Yemshe Festival 2025 at Jubilee Hall, Cathedral Kohima, with cultural presentations and messages of unity and progress.
Special guest Dr. Tseilhuotuo Rhütso (Ato), MLA of 9 Kohima Town, expressed gratitude to the Pochury community for their support and lauded their contributions to Kohima’s development. He highlighted the historical significance of the Pochury tribe, stating that they have been an integral part of Naga history since the British era and continue to contribute meaningfully to the state’s development.
Referring to the creation of Meluri district on November 2, 2024, he noted that the Pochury community was the first to benefit from the Chief Minister’s Mobile Operation Theatre programme, launched by the late Governor La Ganesan on January 26. The programme’s inaugural camp in Meluri successfully conducted numerous surgeries, bringing quality healthcare to rural areas.
Describing Meluri as a “blessed district rich in natural resources,” Dr. Rhütso envisioned its emergence as a future trade route linking Nagaland with Southeast Asia.
Commending the youth for their cultural presentations, he praised their efforts in preserving heritage and said the festival had once again united the Tenyimi family. He described Yemshe as a celebration of inclusion, noting that the invitation extended to other tribes reflected the Pochury community’s broad-minded spirit.
Reaffirming the identity of the Tenyimi family, he stated, “We are called Tenyimi not for survival or political gain, but by blood,” and urged all tribes under the fold to remain united, introspective, and supportive of one another.
Dr. Rhütso also announced the “One Rupee Project for Change,” a citizen-driven initiative to fund developmental works such as drainage, footpaths, and pothole repairs in the capital through voluntary micro-contributions. He assured transparency through digital payment systems and regular public updates, adding that surplus funds could benefit other districts.
On governance, he shared insights from his tenure as an elected representative, acknowledging the limitations of state resources and budget constraints. He appealed for public cooperation and understanding, emphasizing that constructive support is vital for progress.
Former legislator Yitachu, in his exhortation, urged the community to embrace unity and responsibility, and encouraged youth to harness Meluri’s strategic location for growth.
PHK general secretary Yitsuchu Trakha delivered the festival message, explaining Yemshe’s agrarian roots and its significance in sanctifying homes and granaries ahead of the harvest.
The celebration featured folk songs from Kamaleah, Apoksah and Phoyisha ranges, folk dances from Meluri range, and special numbers by Lolia Ngouri and Avikürhe Ngouri. Welcome address was delivered by PHK president Thosiepa Katiry, invocation by Rev. Dr. Z. Mosa Tsang, vote of thanks by PHK finance secretary Nyuvitho Nyuthe, and benediction by Vizhula Nyusou.