The third and final day of the Sekrenyi Mini-Hornbill festival was celebrated at Tuophema village, Kohima with advisor for Rural Development, Dr. Neikiesalie Kire as the special guest on February 27.
Dr. Neikiesalie, in his address, said the Mini-Hornbill festival is celebrated to promote festivals of all tribes in the state. He brought up the opposition party criticizing the budget for focusing too much on entertainment and sports, and said that the government wants youth to venture into different fields since everyone cannot get government jobs. “We should think long term since we have potential in martial arts, women football, music etc. We need to sustain and not give up easily” He added.
Dr. Neikiesalie expressed gratitude to foreigners for attending the celebrations and invited them to attend the main Hornbill festival again in December.
He also said that children should be taught how the Naga forefathers lived. “I also believe it’s not wise to send our children outside for education at a very young age, (they should stay for a while in the state) so that they’ll remain in touch with our culture and tradition” He added.
Interlocutor, R.N. Ravi also paid a brief visit to the celebratory program. Ravi said it was a bonus for him to be able to witness the Sekrenyi celebrations since he had came for some other task.
Along with the Sekrenyi feast, various indigenous game competitions marked the celebration: Tug of war, catapult shooting, top spinning, greased pole climbing, folk song and war cry.
Advisor, H. Haying; advisor, Toshi Wungtung; DC Kohima, Thejagwelie and government officials attended the program apart from the large public turn out.
Convenor of Sekrenyi Committee, Neitho-o Kense chaired the program; chairman Tuophema VC, Pfuduolhou Kense gave the welcome address; Tuophema Cultural Club performed a traditional dance and traditional songs were presented by Botsa Cultural Group and Neichütuo & Party.
Chief Minister, Neiphiu Rio was the chief host of the Angami Sekrenyi Mini-Hornbill celebrations 2019. The theme of the festival was “Purifying Confluence”.