The 17th Bishu Mini Hornbill Tribal Festival concluded at the Government High School playground in Dhansiripar here on Sunday. The festival was organised by Dimasa Public Organisation Nagaland (DPON) and sponsored by the Tourism department, aimed to celebrate the cultural heritage of the Dimasa community and promote unity among various tribes in Nagaland.
Assam’s Power, Sports & Youth Affairs, Cooperation, Indigenous and Tribal Faith and Culture minister Nandita Gorlosa, who was the special guest at the event, exhorted the Dimasa Kacharis not to consider themselves as a minority community but work hard in unity for better tomorrow.
She noted that women in tribal societies were kept out of the decision-making processes, as men took all the decisions.
In his speech, Tourism and Higher Education minister Temjen Imna Along highlighted the significance of preserving traditional customs and fostering unity among indigenous communities.
“We need to celebrate our uniqueness together respecting each other for the upliftment of the community,” he said.
Speaking on the occasion, Industries & Commerce adviser Hekani Jakhalu underscored the need for the Dimasa community to embrace boldness and hard work for development, discouraging the sale of land and property for short-term gains.
Youth Resources and Sports adviser S Keoshu Yimkhiung, who too was present on the occasion, emphasised promotion and preservation of traditional dances and customs, highlighting their importance in representing ancestral practices.
The event featured various cultural presentations by Dhansiripar and Doyapur cultural troupes, including traditional dances and combat performances.
Bishu prayers were offered, and addresses delivered by prominent figures, including DPON president Ditush Naben and Kachari Tribal Council (KTC) Nagaland adviser SK Khemprai. The festival concluded with a message of gratitude from DPON vice-president Atul Rajiyung.