People’s Festival begins at Khezhakeno

Khezhakeno hosted the 5th edition of People’s Festival organised by Khezhakeno Youth Organisation (KYO) in collaboration with Department of Tourism which is an extended festival of the 23rd edition of Hornbill Festival at Chida Resort, Khezhakeno, under Phek district on December 3.
The inaugural programme was held at Khezhakeno village with additional director, Department of Tourism, Veyielo Doulo, as the special guest.
Speaking at the inaugural programme, Doulo reminded that Khezhakeno site had a historical background and was a significant place for the Naga people which was a migration point of the Nagas. He suggested if the village could give a plot of land to each tribe for construction of their Morungs, wherein the real Hornbill Festival could happen which could be “a home coming” for all tribes of the Nagaland state. “Hornbill Festival need not meant only for tradition and culture but also respect nature and the beauty that surrounds us”, he added.
Doulo further advised the village to welcome and receive visitors with a good attitude, to rebuild, share and maintain the tourism spirit in the village and also advised that boosting the tourism activities in the village will be an opportunity for economic generation and development.
Programme was led by Medovelo Tazao, word of blessings by associate pastor, KCRC Upper, Pfolo, folk dance was presented by Khezhakeno cultural troupe while words of gratitude was delivered by KYO, president and benediction by NCRC Khezhakeno Lower, Dikha Sono.
The People’s Festival started in 2018, which coincides with the annual state Hornbill Festival is aimed at promoting people to people interaction and exchange of culture not only at home but with the outside world.
During the ten-day long event, the activities taking place are boating, angling, hiking, bamboo pole climbing, U-14 wrestling, tug of war, village walks along with visitation to historical places, camping, stalls indigenous food and beverage will also be displayed.