The spirit of Moatsü festival is in the air as Mokokchung gears up for the premier celebration of the Ao Naga community. This year, the festival is being organized by the apex Ao Senden on May 1 and 2 at Imkongmeren Sports Complex. Touted as the biggest Moatsü celebration to date, it is described as a “collective celebration initiated by the Ao legislators and the government of Nagaland” – which explains the inclusion of “Mini Hornbill Festival” in parentheses.
The festivities will begin on May 1 with indigenous games and an inter-ward tug-of-war competition for Mokokchung town. A major attraction will be the over 90 stalls featuring local entrepreneurs, games and recreation, food, and photo booths. The stalls will remain open until 9:00 pm on both days. An inter-ward folk song competition will also be held in the evening, with a special appearance by the popular act Dreamz Unlimited.
On May 2, the Ao Senden will host a “civic reception” in honor of Dr Neiphiu Rio, Chief Minister of Nagaland. This will reportedly be the first time Rio is accorded such a reception in Mokokchung. Dignitaries and invitees from across the state are expected to attend. The day’s proceedings will include folk dances, a mass Moatsü feast, and the ceremonial beating of the traditional Moatsü log-drum, a first in Mokokchung town. Earlier in the day, the Chief Minister is scheduled to inaugurate the newly built Deputy Commissioner’s bungalow. In the evening, an original Ao song competition will be held.
Beyond the town, the festival will be celebrated across the district. In Chuchuyimlang, celebrations will be held on May 1, continuing the tradition of inviting cultural troupes from neighboring Naga communities, including the Sangtam, Chang, and Phom.
Moatsü will also be celebrated with traditional fervor in Chungtia and Longmisa villages on May 3. In Süngratsü village, a “green” Moatsü celebration will coincide with the inauguration of the Dr Imtiwapang Aier Sports Complex on May 3.