The third day of the Tokhü Emong celebration was marked by a Cultural Day and Competition programme at Wokha Public Ground on Friday, with Secretary to the Government of Nagaland, Wonchio Odyuo, attending as the special guest.
Addressing the gathering, Odyuo described Tokhü Emong as a festival of love, unity and forgiveness, and stressed the importance of preserving cultural identity. He urged the younger generation to become ambassadors of their culture by upholding and carrying forward the traditions and values inherited from their forefathers.
Emphasising the role of language in preserving cultural identity, Odyuo encouraged families to speak their mother tongue at home. He also called for maintaining the originality of cultural practices and suggested that villages establish cultural clubs to promote indigenous traditions and create awareness among students and youth.
He observed that while modernisation and changing lifestyles continue to influence society, people must remain rooted in their cultural values, including their language, food, beverages, traditional attire and customs.
The programme featured folk song and folk dance competitions, with participants dressed in traditional attire showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the Lotha community. The performances added colour to the celebration while reflecting the community’s traditions and cultural identity.
The three-day celebration will conclude on November 7, with MLA Y. Mhonbemo Humtsoe attending the concluding programme at Wokha Public Ground as the special guest. The final day is expected to feature further cultural presentations and festivities, highlighting the spirit of thanksgiving, sharing, forgiveness and togetherness that defines the Lotha post-harvest festival. (Correspondent)
