KIPHIRE: Advisor for Food & Civil Supply and Legal Metrology, K.T Sukhalu, highlighted the significance of the Tsüngkamnyo Festival as a celebration of community and cultural heritage.
Speaking as the special guest on the second day of the Tsüngkamnyo-cum-Mini Hornbill Festival at Yimkhiung Heritage, Pungro, Kiphire district, Sukhalu emphasized the importance of unity among the Naga community.
"We must look to the future and think about prosperity and progress. We, as a community, must be the architects of our own destiny," Sukhalu said while emphasizing the foundational values of Naga culture rooted in community, he also shared experiences, and generosity.
He underscored the deep roots of Naga culture in village ethos, which values community, shared experiences, and generosity, and stressed the need to uphold these traditions.
“No matter the tribe, all our festivals are marked by community celebrations where everyone participates in the songs, dances, and feasts,” he said, calling for a stronger, unified Naga community.
Sukhalu stressed the importance of not only obtaining degrees but also acquiring technical skills to compete globally. Advising the youth to work hard with determination and discipline, he encouraged parents to nurture integrity and discipline in their children.
Sukhalu warned of the dangers posed by fake news. "We must be cautious about what we choose to believe and spread. A solid foundation of knowledge in education will enable us to discern real news from fake news," he said while emphasizing on the importance of intellectual and spiritual strength for the community's progress.
The event was organised by Advisor for Home Guard & Civil Defence, Fire & Emergency Services, S. Kiusumew which featured a range of activities and speeches by dignitaries. General Secretary of Yimkhiung Tribal Council (YTC), Laji Luyanba, delivered the welcome address, while CKS President N.Y. Choba Chang spoke as the tribal guest. The programme, chaired by Rebecca Khiuphur and Runshito Yimkhiung, also included cultural performances by Sangphur village and Tsuyola.
The three-day Tsüngkamnyo-cum-Mini Hornbill Festival, which began on January 15 at Pungro Town’s local ground, celebrates the vibrant traditions and heritage of the Yimkhiung tribe. The festival will conclude on January 17.
The event commenced with a ceremonial log drum pulling, symbolizing unity and strength, led by the GBs Union Pungro Sub-Division. A dedicatory prayer was offered by Rev. Bumbah, the Pastor of Salomi Baptist Church and soon after it was followed by traditional blessings from Head GB Pungro, Yansomong.
Hosito Elias, convener of the organizing committee, delivered the keynote address, emphasizing the need to preserve the cultural and historical legacy of the Yimkhiung tribe. He highlighted the tribe’s enduring values of forgiveness and reconciliation, citing the practice of hosting feasts between conflicting villages as a means of fostering peace.
Key highlights of the festival included log drum performances by Pungrowong tribal children, a folk song by Penkim village, folk fusion by M. Torila, a western musical performance by Khongsa village, and another folk fusion by Tsuyinla.
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