Tourism minister stresses unity at Sekrenyi celebration

Hundreds of people in colourful traditional attire gathered at Sovima Village Council Ground on Wednesday to attend the culmination of the Sekrenyi-cum-Mini Hornbill Festival of the Angami community. The two-day celebration was organised by the Angami Public Organization (APO) and sponsored by the Department of Tourism.
Addressing the gathering as special guest, minister for Tourism Temjen Imna Along called for unity among Naga tribes and stressed the importance of preserving indigenous culture and traditions while upholding the Christian faith.
Along expressed happiness at being part of the festival and lauded the Angami community for sustaining its rich heritage. He said indigenous communities such as the Angamis, Aos, Sumis, Lothas, Chakhesangs, Zeliangs and Konyaks must preserve their culture, traditions and way of life to remain progressive as a people.
The minister emphasised that faith and tradition can coexist, stating that while Christianity remains central to Naga identity, cultural heritage must also be protected and carried forward. He credited chief minister Dr. Neiphiu Rio for promoting the Hornbill and Mini Hornbill festivals, noting that such initiatives have strengthened cultural pride and revived traditional practices across Nagaland.
Calling for greater unity, Along said that despite growing literacy and stronger tribal identities, Nagas must come together as one people.
He urged community leaders, church leaders and youth to engage in constructive dialogue to ensure peace and collective progress in the state.
The minister also raised concern over illegal immigration, stating that while Nagaland’s tribal diversity is its strength, safeguarding indigenous identity requires awareness and responsible action. He stressed the need for lawful processes such as the Inner Line Permit system and encouraged cooperation between indigenous communities and lawful non-Naga residents engaged in business and other activities.
Earlier, APO president Thejao Vihienuo, in his presidential address, highlighted the spiritual significance of Sekrenyi as a festival of purification and renewal. He noted that although ancestral rituals are no longer practised following the community’s embrace of Christianity, the essence of sanctification and dedication to God remains relevant.
The programme began with an invocation prayer by CRC Sovima village pastor Rev. Zhau Sanchu, while the welcome address was delivered by APO secretary (finance) Dr. Khriezotuo Paphino. Greetings were shared by Chakroma Public Organisation president Zhato Kimho and representatives of the Nagaland Zeliang People Organisation. The significance of the festival was explained by Sovima Head GB Thepfukeduo Kuotsu.
Advisor for Urban Development and Municipal Affairs Zhaleo Rio, patron for the festival, minister for Women Resource Development and Horticulture Salhoutuonuo Kruse, advisor to CM and IDAN chairman Abu Metha were also among the dignitaries present.
The event featured indigenous games and sports, cultural performances including a special song by BKK of Kuda village, and stalls displaying organic vegetables, handicrafts and jewellery. The vote of thanks was delivered by APO treasurer Avio Tetso, followed by benediction by Baptist Church ‘A’ Medziphema Town pastor Rev. Zhabu Terhuja.