Wokha, 6 November (MTNews): Lotha Hoho marked a historic milestone on Monday as it celebrated its Centenary Jubilee under the theme “Chanting for the Deliverance of Century’s Blessing.” The event’s chief host was Y Patton, Deputy Chief Minister of Nagaland, who was joined by Mhathung Yanthan, Advisor for Agriculture, Y Mhonbemo Humtsoe and Achumbemo Kikon, Members of the Nagaland Legislative Assembly, Dr Chumben Murry, Advisor to the Chief Minister, Nagaland, K Libanthung Lotha IAS, Commissioner Secretary, and Er Mhondamo Ovung, Chairman of Lotha Hoho, as special guests.
Y Patton calls for unity and forgiveness
In his address, Y Patton extended warm Jubilee greetings and expressed gratitude to the pioneers and present leaders of Lotha Hoho for their selfless contributions to Lotha society. He emphasized the significance of generosity and contributions in promoting comprehensive development while cautioning against the pitfalls of selfishness, which can lead to disunity and societal degradation.
Patton highlighted the importance of community support for any organization’s success. He stressed that a Jubilee represents a celebration of forgiveness and love, urging the community to use this milestone as an opportunity to resolve misunderstandings and foster a spirit of brotherhood. He also called for an end to clanism and the formation of numerous organizations. Patton also emphasized the preservation of the Lotha Tribal Council building as a heritage site and offered to sponsor the cost of its preservation.
Preserving local traditions and protecting and conserving wild animals were also key points in Patton’s speech. He recognized Lotha Hoho’s role as a unifying force and encouraged reflection on the past and a commitment to building a better future for Lotha society.
Mhathung Yanthan, Advisor for Agriculture, Government of Nagaland, commended Lotha Hoho and its affiliated organizations for their initiative in celebrating the Jubilee. He encouraged the audience to follow in the footsteps of their forefathers and celebrate the unity and challenges that have led to this Jubilee. Yanthan emphasized the duty of all concerned members to support Lotha Hoho for all-round development and encouraged gratitude and a sense of direction based on a clear vision.
Y Mhonbemo Humtsoe, MLA, expressed gratitude for the blessings received during the 100-year journey. He stressed the importance of reconciliation and forgiveness, linking these actions to prosperity and peace, alluding to the connection between forgiving others and receiving God’s forgiveness.
Achumbemo Kikon, MLA, briefly discussed the formation of Lotha Hoho, formerly known as Lotha Tribal Council (1923). He emphasized the historical significance of Wokha for the Lothas and the Nagas, calling on the community to lead Naga society into the future with a clear vision.
Dr Chumben Murry, Advisor to the Chief Minister, extended Jubilee greetings and acknowledged the challenges faced by early Lotha leaders in establishing the Lotha Tribal Council, even gaining recognition from the British. Murry highlighted significant changes in the 100-year journey, particularly the impact of Christianity and modern governance. He called for unity among Naga society members and adaptation to the rapidly changing world, challenging like-minded individuals to come together and work for progress.
Khyopenthung Tsopoe, Vice President of the Lotha Officers Association, called for the end of any ‘isms’ that might hinder Lotha society’s growth and progress. He emphasized the importance of choosing capable leaders and following their vision for societal progress.
The event also featured a special performance by the WTBC choir, with Dr N Janbemo Humtsoe as the program host. A Jubilee blessing prayer was delivered by Rev. Sankiluma Kikon, President of LBCA, and the invocation was done by Rev Fr John Ntonsi, Centre in-charge of St. Peters Catholic Church, Longsa. The Jubilee souvenir was unveiled by the chief host, Y Patton, while a welcome note was addressed by Er. Mhondamo Ovung, Chairman of Lotha Hoho.
The dedication of the monolith was led by Rev Nyanchumo Lotha, Executive Secretary of LBCA, and the unveiling was done by Y Patton, Deputy Chief Minister of Nagaland. Various tribal organizations of Nagaland also delivered short speeches during the event, reinforcing the message of unity, forgiveness, and progress that resonated throughout the celebration.