DIMAPUR, AUG 8 (NPN): The Yimkhiung community celebrated the Metümnyo festival on Saturday with fervour and cultural pride across Dimapur, Mokokchung, Pungro and Kohima, showcasing unity and rich traditions.
Metümnyo, one of the most cherished festivals of the Yimkhiung people, is traditionally observed for five days from August 4-8 after the millet harvest. In Kohima, the festival was celebrated at RCEMPA, Jotsoma, organised by the Yimkhiung Union Kohima.
Extending greetings, deputy chief minister T.R. Zeliang said festivals are living expressions of identity and shared heritage. He described Metümnyo as a reminder of the Yimkhiung people’s resilience and deep connection with nature. He noted the strengthened ties between the Yimkhiung and Zeliang tribes as a milestone of brotherhood, urging communities to build bridges instead of barriers. Zeliang reminded that Metümnyo is not only thanksgiving for harvest but also a symbol of unity, kindness and reconciliation.
Advisor Kuzholuzo Nienu (Azo) and Angami Public Organisation president Thejao Vihienuo also greeted the Yimkhiung people. Metümnyo, signifying “feast of spirit,” is marked by thanksgiving, community renewal, farewell to departed souls and welcoming of newborns. The observance culminates on Shiresük, the final day dedicated to feasting on fresh millet, exchanging gifts, drinking local brew and cultural performances.
In Dimapur, more than 1,000 people clad in traditional attire gathered at Ao Senden Riju, Purana Bazaar, for the celebration organised by the Yimkhiung Union Dimapur (YUD).
Addressing the gathering as special guest, inister for Housing and Mechanical, P. Bashangmongba Chang, underscored the importance of preserving Naga culture and heritage. He noted that Nagaland, though a small state, had gained global recognition for its traditions, attracting lakhs of tourists annually, particularly during the Hornbill Festival. He urged the gathering to not allow Naga heritage to be forgotten, while cautioning against corruption, jealousy and ego clashes.
Chang called upon youth to embrace hard work, sincerity and dedication in a competitive, technology driven world, encouraging them to explore opportunities in skill development, entrepreneurship and hospitality, while upholding dignity of labour.
Guest of honour Benei M. Lamthiu, MLA and DPDB Noklak chairman, highlighted the role of festivals like Metümnyo in preserving identity and culture, especially for those who had migrated to urban centres. He urged the gathering to treat the festival as a platform for learning and cultural preservation, stressing honesty, truth and peaceful coexistence as keys to progress.
Earlier, the programme was chaired by Thsangchingla A, CE, YBCD, with invocation by Rev. Dr. Athsan, pastor, YBCD, and welcome address by YUD president L. Shahoto. The significance of Metümnyo was highlighted by UBSI K. Langakhum. Cultural presentations included traditional dances and folk songs by Tsünshiso Cultural Club, Khungriso Cultural Society, and Tsünrün Cultural Club, with a special performance by Wungyinla and friends. (Staff Reporter)
In Mokokchung, the festival was hosted by the Yimkhiung Union Mokokchung (YUM) at the YBCM Compound. The significance of Metümnyo was shared by Kiumukam Yimkhiung. Highlights included a folk song by the Yimkhiung Students’ Union Mokokchung, a traditional dance by Yimkhiung Perü Mokokchung, and indigenous games that added vibrancy to the occasion.
Earlier, YUM president Shahoto delivered the welcome address, while greetings were extended by Y. Among Yimchunger and L. John Yimkhiung. The vote of thanks was proposed by Y. Kiuji, general secretary, YUM.
In Pungro, the festival was celebrated at the Multipurpose Hall, hosted by S. Kiusumew Yimchunger, advisor Fire & Emergency Services, Home Guards & Civil Defence, Relief & Rehabilitation, and organised by the Pungro Town Festival Committee.
In his address, Kiusumew urged the people to let the festival reflect the spirit of brotherhood, unity and forgiveness, giving it true meaning in modern times. The programme began with invocation by Rev. Fr. Dr. Vemedo Joseph, parish priest, St. Paul Parish Pungro, followed by a melody presented by Pungro Town GBs.
Short speeches were delivered by ADC Pungro Hotolu Sema, SDPO Pungro Y. Ashito Aye, and Makezho, executive chairman YTC, each reflecting on the festival as a reminder to preserve cultural roots and bridge the past with a hopeful future. The origin of Metümnyo was narrated by Yansomong, Hd. GB Pungro Town.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Joshua K, secretary Festival Committee, followed by a cultural dance by Pongthu Cultural Troupe, Pungro Town, and a festival feast at the MLA’s residence.