Deputy Speaker of the Nagaland Legislative Assembly, Toiho Yeptho, graced the Tsüngremmung Festival of the Aos at Longsa village, Mokokchung, as the chief guest on August 2, 2024. The celebration was organized by the Longsa Village Council under the patronage of the Tourism Department, Government of Nagaland.
In his address to the festive gathering at Salang Lenden, Longsa, the chief guest said that festivals are a time to invoke the blessings of the creator and foster brotherhood among communities for peace and prosperity. He stated that the tribal mindset is the root cause of many societal problems and urged everyone to combat this divisive mindset. He expressed hope that Longsa village, known for producing many prominent public leaders and bureaucrats, will continue to be blessed for generations to come.
Minister of RD and SIRD, Government of Nagaland, Metsubo Jamir, also delivered a short speech on the occasion. He reminded everyone that every day is a day of thanksgiving for all blessings, adding that a nation that practices gratitude lives in peace and prosperity. He further emphasized the importance of cherishing the love and blessings received from one another.
Benei M Lamthiu, MLA, in his brief speech, encouraged living for the greater good, noting, “We never know what we have until it is gone.”
Lipokmeren Jamir, President of Ongpangkong Mungdang, and R Lepden Longkumer, Ex-MLA, also delivered a short speech on the occasion.
Earlier in the day, traditional vine pulling (Arr Atsü) was held, with the chief guest participating along with his colleagues Metsubo Jamir, Benei M Lamthiu, Limaonen Chang, MLA, Pongshi Phom, MLA, government officials, and villagers.
Highlights of the day’s events included an invocation by Rev K Supong, Pastor of Longsa Baptist Church, a welcome address by Talichuba Tatar, Chairman of Longsa Village Council, and a discussion on the significance of Tsüngremmung by Bendangwati Tatar. Temjensosang Tatar of the Tourism Committee proposed a vote of thanks.
Cultural displays featured the Aluyimer Ken (Farmer’s Song) by Longsa Watsü Telen, Antipong Rara (Cock Fight) by the Lion Club, traditional sports by the Eagle Club, a cultural dance by Sapotimi Village, Amen Ken (Folk Song) by Longdi Yimsen, and a Tug-of-War between Shijen Zünga-Watemdong, Salu, Sensu, and Aosüngküm.