Advisor of Urban Development and Municipal Affairs, Zhaleo Rio called upon the Chakhesang community to preserve and promote their rich culture and traditions.
Gracing Thuni, the Chakhesang tribal festival on January 6 at Zhavame village under Phek district, Zhaleo said Phek district deserved the name as “The Land of Tradition” for its rich culture and traditions.
He praised the Chakhesang community for their colourful dresses, songs, dances and ornaments.
He said Hornbill Festival has become a mega festival in India and gained global stature.
Zhaleo maintained that Hornbill Festival has not only promoted the rich cultural heritage and lifestyle of the Nagas but hugely contribute to the growth of tourism industry, thereby boosting the economy of the state.
In this regard, he called upon the people to stay attach to their culture and always keep in touch with their root.
Zhaleo also stressed on the need to teach children about the culture and traditions from a young age so they can carry on the legacy into the future.
Also addressing the gathering as guest of honour, NPF Legislature party leader Kuzholuzo (Azo) Nienu called upon the Chakhesang community to be more honest and transparent in all their dealings and “not compromise with our unity in order to strengthen the entire Naga brotherhood for a better Nagaland.”
He was also optimistic that Nagas will one day achieve its aspiration of sovereignty.
“Our forefathers had laid down their lives for sovereignty, therefore we must demand sovereignty from Government of India”, he said.
Stressing on the need to maintain accountability and transparency, Azo also called upon the people to speak the truth and uphold the rich culture and traditions.
Sharing greetings, Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) president Medovi Rhi called upon the Chakhesang community to reaffirm their commitment to unity in diversity.
The festival was organised by Chakhesang Public Organization (CPO) in collaboration with Nagaland’s Tourism department with Razeba Public Organization (RPO) as the host.
The festival commenced with village walk from Public Amphitheatre (Pame Tsiidu) to Local Ground.
The programme was chaired by CPO vice president Vecito Dozo while Rev. Akha Shupao, pastor, Zhavame Baptist Church invoked God’s blessings.
The programme featured folk song from Khumai village (Tunggam), folk dance by Soraphung village (Krowemi) and Ri Doii (Warrior’s dance) by Zhavame village.
Rev. Fr. Rozii Anthony Dukru, Parish Priest & Principal, St. Joseph’s Parish Chumoukedima pronounced benediction.
The programme was followed by Thuni feast and cultural competition led by Chakhesang Mothers’ Association (CMA) general secretary Kezevinuo Krome.
Officials from Sumi Hoho and Angami Public Organization also graced the festival.
Thuni is a festival of New Harvest and celebrated by the Chakhesang tribe, predominantly by the people of Razeba Range under Phek district.
‘Thu’ literally means ‘new’ or ‘fresh’ and ‘ni’ stands for festival. Hence it is a celebration of new things whether it comes in the form of fruits, vegetables or paddy.