Tikhir Union Kohima (TUK) celebrated Tsonglak Nyi at Bamboo Hall, Naga Heritage village on October 11.
A DIPR report informed that the event was graced by Special Transport Officer, Alembin as special guest on behalf of her husband, minister of Housing and Mechanical Engineering, P. Bashangmongba Chang.
In her brief speech, Alembin extended festival greetings to the people of Tikhir, who had gathered to share the blessing and joy of Tsonglaknyi festival. She said that the uniqueness of the Nagas was always defined and recognised by different festivals, cultures and languages spoken. She mentioned that the most important aspect of festivals in the Naga society was to strengthen the relationship, the friendship with the neighbouring villages and also to forgive and forget.
James Khulu Tikhir Under Secretary Home department shared the significance of Tsonglaknyi, which was one of the most important festival among the Tikhir festivals. It is celebrated for four days from October 9 to 12 every year. The word Tsonglak Nyi was made up of two words- Tsong means Sheild and Lak means sanctification. Tsonglak nyi basically is a festival of the sanctification of sheild. It also means sanctification of weapon as well as purification of menfolk before going out for hunting (during forefather’s time)
The village headman announcement for the festival was made known every year to the public three days in advance. It was done so that households/public can prepare necessary arrangement and make enough stock with regard to rice, firewood, rice beer etc. that would last for four days.
Short speech was also delivered by Kiusumong Tikhir OSD to chief minister while Tikhir Union Kohima president T. Tsuthong delivered welcome address. Y.T Tsinthong pastor TBCK invoked God’s blessing and vote of thanks by executive chairman (TUK) T. L Kiusumong Tikhir.
Elate Fusion Band presented indigenous folk song while Kiuti Khea Tsin Rechip performed folk song and dance. The program was compered by K. Kiukhimthong and T. Lemteshi.