Nagaland’s Urban Development & Municipal Affairs Advisor, Zhaleo Rio, called upon the Chakhesang community to preserve and promote its rich culture and traditions.
Gracing Thuni, the Chakhesang tribal festival on January 6 at Zhavame village in Phek district, Rio said that Phek district deserves its brand name as “The Land of Tradition” due to its rich culture and traditions. He praised the Chakhesang community for its colorful dresses, songs, dances, and ornaments.
Rio noted that the Hornbill Festival has become a major event in India and has gained global recognition. He emphasized that the Hornbill Festival not only promotes the rich cultural heritage and lifestyle of the Nagas but also significantly contributes to the growth of the tourism industry, thereby boosting the state’s economy.
In this context, he urged the people to stay connected to their culture and always remain in touch with their roots. The advisor also stressed the importance of teaching children about culture and traditions from a young age so they can carry on the legacy into the future.
Also addressing the gathering as the guest of honor, NPF Legislature Party leader Kuzholuzo (Azo) Nienu urged the Chakhesang community to be more honest and transparent in all dealings and “not compromise on our unity in order to strengthen the entire Naga brotherhood for a better Nagaland.” He expressed optimism that the Nagas will one day achieve their aspiration of sovereignty.
“Our forefathers laid down their lives for sovereignty; therefore, we must demand sovereignty from the Government of India,” he said. Stressing the need to maintain accountability and transparency, Azo also called upon the people to speak the truth and uphold their rich culture and traditions.
Sharing greetings, Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) president Medovi Rhi said, “On this Thuni festival, let us reaffirm our commitment to unity in diversity. Let us uphold the expectations of our elders and ensure that our religion, faith, and customs are cherished in their rightful places.” He added, “May we always remain true to our roots while embracing the future with open hearts.”
The Thuni festival was organized by the Chakhesang Public Organization (CPO) in collaboration with Nagaland’s tourism department, with the Razeba Public Organization (RPO) as the host. The festival commenced with a village walk from the Public Amphitheatre (Pame Tsiidu) to the Local Ground. The program was chaired by CPO vice president Vecito Dozo, while Rev. Akha Shupao, pastor of Zhavame Baptist Church, invoked God’s blessings.
The event featured folk songs from Khumai village (Tunggam), folk dances by Soraphung village (Krowemi), and Ri Doii (Warrior’s dance) by Zhavame village. Rev. Fr. Rozii Anthony Dukru, Parish Priest & Principal of St. Joseph’s Parish Chumoukedima, pronounced the benediction. The program was followed by a Thuni feast and cultural competition led by Chakhesang Mothers’ Association (CMA) general secretary Kezevinuo Krome.
Officials from the Sumi Hoho and Angami Public Organization also graced the festival.
Thuni is a festival of New Harvest celebrated by the Chakhesang tribe, predominantly by the people of Razeba Range in Phek district. “Thu” literally means “new” or “fresh,” and “ni” stands for festival. Hence, it is a celebration of new things, whether they come in the form of fruits, vegetables, or paddy. Thuni is a time when people offer their gratitude to the supreme God for blessing them with a bountiful harvest and good health throughout the year.
The celebration of Thuni is preceded by the pushing down of a large pile of firewood (siikho) and subsequently making a bonfire out of it, symbolizing originality, peace, purity, and equity.