DIMAPUR: Angami Women Organisation (AWO) celebrated Khoupfhünyi, the traditional festival of the Angami people, at Khuochiezie, Kohima, on September 11 with minister for Women Resources Development and Horticulture, Salhoutuonuo Kruse, as the special guest.
According to DIPR report, Khoupfhünyi, associated with women and younger folks, is a celebration of blessings, prosperity, sharing and togetherness. The festival is marked by exchange of food, communal feasting and special offerings, reflecting values of generosity, love, care and harmony within the community.
Speaking at the celebration, Kruse lauded AWO for organising Khoupfhünyi at the organisation level for the first time and bringing the Angami community together. She endorsed the proposal to include the festival in the government calendar as a restricted holiday, stating that it would promote unity and cooperation among the Angamis.
She said customs and traditions associated with Khoupfhünyi across different Angami ranges could be brought together to strengthen unity. Highlighting the role of women and girls in building peaceful and progressive families and society, she said the festival provides an opportunity to honour and celebrate their contributions.
Kruse also emphasised the importance of preserving traditional and cultural values, cautioning that heritage could disappear if not documented and passed on to future generations. She released the AWO book “Cultural Footprints: Give to Gain” and suggested inclusion of photographs to better depict cultural practices.
She further noted that with tourism being promoted under Chief Minister Dr. Neiphiu Rio, preserving and promoting Nagaland’s culture and traditions would be vital for strengthening the tourism sector and generating revenue.
Angami Public Organisation (APO) president, Thejao Vihienuo, thanked AWO for organising the festival and informed that APO had identified August 28 as Khoupfhünyi Day. He said APO plans to approach the government to incorporate the day into the official calendar as a restricted holiday.
The programme was chaired by AWO advisor Neilhouzono Nagi, while AWO president Neithono R. Sothu delivered the keynote address. AWO general secretary Atono Kense spoke on the significance of Khoupfhünyi according to Viswema tradition. Womenfolk from Southern AWO and Western AWO presented a play and traditional song, while AWO finance secretary Yievikhono Kitshü showcased Angami traditional cuisine and attire. The vote of thanks was delivered by Chakhroma Women Organisation president Dievilhoutuonuo Thakro, and benediction by Rev. Keduolhoulie Shüya, pastor of Meriema Baptist Church.
