KLH hosts cultural exchange ahead of Jubilee

As a prelude to its upcoming Golden Jubilee celebration, the Kohima Lotha Hoho (KLH) organised a Cultural Exchange Programme on Tuesday at RCEMPA, Jotsoma, under the theme “Integrating Cultures for Common Good.”
Advisor for School Education and SCERT, Dr. Kekhrielhoulie Yhome, graced the event as honoured guest and lauded the Kohima Lotha Hoho for its yearlong initiatives, including sanitation drives, women empowerment, and youth career guidance. He described the 50-year journey as a significant milestone and urged the community to uphold unity and identity among Nagas, emphasising harmony across diverse tribal lines.
Reflecting on Naga history, Dr. Yhome recalled the early political movement led by A.Z. Phizo and the growth of education in the state, noting that Nagaland now stands among India’s most literate states. He called upon the people to rebuild trust and preserve their legacy through collective progress.
Delivering the keynote address, advisor for Agriculture, Mhathung Yanthan, described Kohima as a “living mosaic” of cultures and praised the Kohima Lotha Hoho for its role in community building and cultural preservation. He emphasised that culture should serve as a bridge for unity and social progress.
Y. Mhonbemo Humtsoe and Achumbemo Kikon both MLAs also extended greetings, with Kikon conveying best wishes on behalf of Deputy Chief Minister Y. Patton. Both acknowledged the Hoho’s contributions to fostering unity and preserving Lotha identity.
Angami Public Organization president, Thejao Viheinuo, congratulated the Hoho on reaching the 50-year milestone and acknowledged the Lotha community’s integral role in shaping Kohima’s development. He urged the community to carry forward the legacy of early settlers and strengthen bonds between Angamis and Lothas.
Greetings were also conveyed by Lotha Hoho chairman, Er Mhondamo Ovung, and Dr. Thanghoi Lam, president of Khiamniungan Union Kohima.
Earlier, the programme began with invocation by Rev. Fr. Mhabemo Humtsoe, Parish Priest of SFS Kohima, and welcome address by Kohima Lotha Hoho chairman, K.N. Mhonthung Lotha. Benediction was pronounced by Lujeka Assumi, associate pastor of SBCK.
The event featured musical performances by Yentsso Von, Neilaü Thaprü, Tumchobeni Tsopoe, Thunonulu, and Mhasenro Shitio, followed by a cultural regale showcasing diverse Naga traditions. The programme concluded with benediction by Zuchonthung Ovung, Pastor of KLBC, and closing remarks by Kohima Lotha Hoho treasurer, Jonas Yanthan.
The celebration highlighted cultural diversity and unity, setting the tone for the Kohima Lotha Hoho’s Golden Jubilee later this year.