Correspondent
WOKHA, NOV 4 (NPN): The opening ceremony of the Tokhu Emong festival was held at the Public Ground, Wokha, on November 4.
Addressing the gathering, Lotha Hoho chairman Er. Mhondamo Ovung highlighted the significance of Tokhu Emong and addressed the perceived contradiction between Christianity and the traditional festival. He clarified that the celebration was not intended to conflict with religious beliefs but to preserve the roots, identity, culture and heritage of the Lotha community.
Describing Tokhu Emong as a festival of thanksgiving, he said it was a time to thank God for the blessings received throughout the year, seek forgiveness, exchange gifts and strengthen bonds of friendship and togetherness.
He also emphasised the importance of preserving cultural traditions while remaining firmly grounded in faith.
Earlier, Ovung inaugurated the festival stalls set up as part of the celebration.
The programme began with an invocation by retired pastor Rev. Tssopemo Ngullie of AG Wokha, while the inauguration prayer was offered by Rev. Abemo Jungio, pastor of Wokha Town Baptist Church.
Students of Isaiah Ability School, Wokha, presented a special folk song. Lotha Hoho cultural secretary Yihamo Patton read out the rules and regulations governing the festival stalls. The programme was chaired by Lotha Hoho vice-chairman N. Elis Jungio.