Mini Hornbill Festival commenes in Peren

The three-day Unity Mini Hornbill Festival 2024 commenced at the DC Office Complex in Peren District Headquarters on 5th December 2024, with Deputy Commissioner of Peren, Hiazu Meru, serving as the special guest for the inaugural function.

Hiazu Meru, in his address said festivals are an integral part of human culture, which provides a platform in bringing people together to celebrate, rejoice and connect with one another, and these vibrant events showcase the rich diversity of traditions, customs and values that defines the communities. He also said, festivals play a crucial role in preserving cultural heritage, as they often revolve around traditional practices, music, dance and art.

While stressing on festivals, Meru said, festivals play a crucial role in shaping identity as they provide a sense of belonging and connection to one’s cultural heritage. They help to create a shared sense of identity among community members, creating a sense of unity and social cohesion.

The Deputy Commissioner noted that the Unity Mini Hornbill Festival at the District Headquarters in Peren was organized to bring together the various communities of the district. He expressed his happiness over the participation of several Tribal Hohos and CSOs and appealed to them to continue their support with the same enthusiasm in the future.

Meru also acknowledged the contributions of the neighboring villages of Kejanglwa and New Peren, led by their respective village chairmen, for their generous support in constructing the Morungs.

The DC thanked all government departments, contractors, and agencies for their cooperation in ensuring the festival’s success, as decided in the DPDB meeting. He appealed to all Heads of Departments to maintain the same team spirit to further the unity of officers and work together for the district’s development.

Following the inaugural program, the DC officially opened the exhibition stalls and flower show competition at the festival venue.

As the chief host, President of the Kuki Inpi Nagaland (KIN), L Singsit, IPS (Retd.), said that to achieve development in the district, it is crucial to honor each other’s cultures and traditions while preserving natural resources. He also urged the gathering to maintain the district’s greenery and move forward together, setting aside minor differences.

The first day of the festival featured captivating cultural performances by the Ngaulo Cultural Troupe, Liangmai Cultural Troupe, Rongmei Traditional Troupe, and Inbung Village Cultural Troupe. Folk songs were also presented by Heiraisile, Lunghingdaile, and Namguihingle. In the afternoon, competitions in tug-of-war and indigenous games took place.

MT