The two-day Ahuna Festival 2025, celebrated under the theme “Bound by History, Bridging Generations,” concluded with a vibrant display of Sümi heritage, unity, and creativity. Organised by the Sümi Hoho and hosted by the Sümi Aphyumeyi Frontal Organizations, the festival featured traditional ceremonies, cultural performances, and a grand musical evening. The Ahuna Music Concert, curated by the Sümi Music Forum, was held on November 14 and showcased an impressive lineup of local talent.
Sumi Hoho through its media cell stated that speaking as the special invitee at the Ahuna Music Concert, Rengma Hoho, President, Er. Tesinlo Semy, highlighted the longstanding bond of friendship and shared heritage between the Sumi and Rengma communities. He said the Festival serves as a reminder that “gratitude and unity are at the heart of our traditions.”
Er. Semy emphasized the deep historical and cultural connections between the Sumi and Rengma tribes. He noted that both communities once lived together in ancient settlements like Khwenphen and Chewenyuphen, and that many clans from both tribes trace their origins to these places. Similarities in customs, attire, and songs reflect their shared ancestry. He also referred to oral traditions tracing Naga origins from Mongolia through China and Burma, eventually dispersing from Makhel and Kezakenoma to form the present-day Naga tribes.
Er. Semy drew parallels between the Sumi Ahuna and Rengma Ngada festivals, noting that both celebrate thanksgiving, prosperity, and communal harmony. He emphasized that, though observed separately today, he noted that these festivals reflect a time when both communities rejoiced together after the harvest.
He described the evening’s musical concert as a continuation of that spirit, saying, “Music lifts our hearts, heals divisions, and brings people together.” He urged both tribes to preserve their bond of love, respect, and shared heritage for future generations and concluded by giving thanks to God for the enduring brotherhood between the Sumi and Rengma people.
Delivering an address at the Ahuna Festival Music Concert, Music Secretary (WSBAK) Rev. Hojevi Kappo stated that his calling to music comes from God and that artistic recognition carries great responsibility.
Receiving praise and an honour that evening, he remarked that while he is grateful, the award also brings a sense of burden. He emphasized that he was “called to Music ministry by God” and strives always “not to misuse the gift.”
He traced his creativity to faith, landscape, and tradition. “The source of my songs is — God, Nature & our cultures,” he said. As a writer, he seeks to reflect the community’s roots, past lifestyles, and that his works brings values of Sümi culture and tradition to the fore.
As a composer he said he leans on traditional tunes, and as an innovator he highlighted the use of natural instruments that have direct links to local culture. He also explained the meaning behind the term “Nagagenous” — “Naga indigenous (Nagami ye aghakütsami ke)” — and thanked Nagagenous members for their sacrifices.
Rev. Kappo shared the festival’s chosen theme, “Stories to tell (story of our culture and the gospel),” and performed or referenced several songs close to his heart, including Khristmas is best in my village, Kashopapu, Slimi and Süpumi. He urged younger musicians to stay true to their roots: “Do not be a Khecheli kupo musician,” he cautioned, appealing for authenticity and cultural fidelity.
Highlighting the global reach of cultural music, Rev. Kappo said his tour to several countries was made possible because of the cultural songs he champions, and concluded by expressing gratitude to those who have supported the work.
The event was chaired by Sümi Hoho, Vice President, Otova Swu and hosted by Miss Dimapur 2025, Christina Yeptho, along with Atto Achumi. The concert commences with a prayer by Rev. Fr. Paul Inashe, Parish Priest of Lazami, and featured performances by Nguvili Assumi, Kito Swo, Grace Swu, Inito Meren Swu, Lovi Aye, Heli Wotsa, Inaho Swu, Timeless Band, and The Noisy Neighbour.
