The 5th Chakhesang Day was celebrated by Chakhesangs on Thursday commemorating recognition of the Chakhesang tribe on January 10, 1946. Following are reports of the event as celebrated in Phek district and Bade village.
CPO: The 5th Chakhesang Day was celebrated at Chesezu village, Phek district under the auspices of Chakhesang Public Organization (CPO) on Thursday.
A press release from CPO media cell stated that, Dr. Chotisuh Sazo MLA stated that, “We were called eastern Angamis till 1946,” and added that it was on January 10 when visionary leaders came together and decided to become a separate tribe named Chakhesang. “As a recognized tribe, we are now 73 years old. Let us maintain this spirit of unity/togetherness that is instituted by our forefathers,” said Sazo.
Stating that Chakhesangs are a unique group of people, he said “Our identity is simplicity, honesty and (being) hardworking.” “Let us uphold the integrity, unity and dignity of Chakhesang. Let no man break this bondage of family, brotherhood and community,” he asserted.
Former minister Thenucho Tunyi maintained that the Chakhesangs have made a number of contributions to the Naga people, be it in the social, economical, and cultural fields, adding that “even in political principles, we are rooted like a solid rock until our goal is achieved.”
Stating that Chakhesangs have qualities that receive appreciation from others, he said “Hence, we should try to live a dependable and honest life.” “We have achieved great milestones that have changed the face of Naga society yet we still have much to learn, and contribute,” he said.
Former minister Zachilhu Vadeo, in his speech, stressed on the need to uphold and adopt good traditional values of the Chakhesang forefathers. He maintained that strict adherence to taboos, fear and shame, will ensure a favourable life and prosperity. He also called upon the people to promote and improve traditional songs and dance as well as local languages.
Former minister Zhovehu Lohe called for strict implementation of restrictions imposed by the CPO on import of pigs into Chakhesang jurisdiction. Praising all the concerned villages for maintaining reserved forests, he stressed on the need to impose total bans on hunting throughout the year.
Lohe felt the need to revisit the function of the Village Development Board (VDB), adding that trust deficits should not be grounds for tarnishing the image of the VDB. He suggested the institution of a citation/award for the best performing Village Councils and VDBs to instill a competitive spirit.
Earlier, minister for Planning & Coordination and Land Revenue, Neiba Kronu released a CPO research handbook entitled “Path Finder- A simple and comparative study of Chakhesang Languages.”
This handbook was brought out to promote better communication among the different dialect speaking groups and will be used in Sunday schools to help children understand each other’s dialects, and strengthen unity, said CPO president Kekhwengulo Lea.
The CPO’s new president, Mikha Kenye also spoke on the occasion and CPO general secretary Mutsivoyi Kotso proposed a vote of thanks. The function was chaired by John Lohe.
WCYO: Western Chakhesang Youth Organization (WCYO) observed “Chakhesang Day” during its Biennial Sports Meet currently underway at Bade village, on January 10.
A press release from WCYO president, Likalo Letro stated that Besuneyi Swuro, vice president, Western Chakhesang Hoho (WCH), speaking on the occasion greeted the community and briefed the youth about the significance of the day. He mentioned that pioneers like late Goyiepra Kenye, Wezülhi Krome and Nesatsü Khamo had mobilized the community and fought for recognition of the Chakhesang tribe. The tribe was recognized on January 10, 1946 by the British Indian government, he said adding that, “before this time, the Chakhesangs were a part of Eastern Angami.”
Swuro exhorted the gathering, particularly the youth, to take up the responsibility of strengthening a sense of unity within the community in particular and society in general. He also called on the gathering to be instruments of support for each other irrespective of background.
Swuro further encouraged the sportspersons and youth to strive for competing on higher platforms and bring laurels to the community.