Mokokchung, May 2 (MTNews): A two-day Moatsü festival organized by Ao Senden in collaboration with Fazl Ali College kicked off on May 2 at FAC Auditorium with Metsubo Jamir, Minister of Rural Development, as the Guest of Honor and S. Pangnyu Phom, Minister of Health and Family Welfare as the Special Guest.
Metsubo Jamir praised Ao Senden and FAC in his address for having the foresight to organise the festival. He also congratulated FAC for receiving Grade A during the last NAAC accreditation cycle.
Metsubo went on to say how important culture and tradition are. He also said how our forefathers were hardworking people, and how there are no beggars in the area as a result of this culture.He also exhorted the people to observe Moatsü festival in all of its purity, expressing gratitude to God. He also urged everyone to embrace the festive season’s ethos of hard work and cooperation.
In his remarks, special guest S. Pangnyu Phom, Minister of Health and Family Welfare, emphasised that the Moatsü festival is a celebration of our origins and a renewed relationship based on passion and love for a united and successful society. Pangnyu praised the Aos for their pioneering efforts in all aspects of society.
“The Ao Nagas have been essential in the state’s success and expansion by motivating and bringing about significant change with their efforts to educate the different Naga tribes,” he explained.
He also questioned the Ao Nagas if they are carrying on the spiritual lamps and leading the charge for a better Naga community, as their forebears did.
He continued, “We now have greater obligations than we did previously, and we must not allow negative societal factors to dominate us. As Nagas, we passionately adhere to our customary laws and traditions, which place men in leadership roles in all spheres, but we must shift our mindset and provide opportunities for women as well.”
Earlier while delivering the welcome address, Chubawati Longchar, President of Ao Senden, stated that the Commerce Stream will be introduced in FAC as soon as possible, as promised by the Chief Minister of Nagaland, and that an extension of 35 rooms will be added to the Imkongliba Memorial District Hospital within 45 days, as promised by S. Pangnyu Phom, Minister of Health and Family Welfare.
The first day of the Moatsü festival also saw the opening of a museum and an art gallery, as well as a crafts exhibition, stalls, and a flower display. Ao spell bee, prepared speech in Ao, and cultural cosplay for youngsters were among the competitions presented. Other features of the festival included angling, a kid’s carnival, traditional games, a traditional crafts exposition, science and exhibition, and a tour and talent exposition.