Wokha, 28 July (MTNews): The Renchen Women Welfare Society (RWWS) organized a one-day seminar at Lotha Hoho ki, Wokha, with the theme “Traditional Weaving: Recollect, Revive, Pass on,” aimed at educating and creating awareness among college and higher secondary girl students about the significance of age-old traditional practices, weaving, arts, and costumes. The event witnessed a gathering of around 200 students, including teacher in-charge, from various educational institutions such as Bailey Baptist College, Mt. Tiyi College, Don Bosco Hr. Secondary, Isaiah Ability Hr. Secondary, and Libemo Memorial Hr. Sec. schools.
Speaking as the special guest of the event, Er Mhondamo Ovung, Chairman of Lotha Hoho, emphasized the importance of preserving one’s identity and traditions. He urged the students not to forget their roots and instead promote their culture and heritage.
Ovung praised the RWWS for taking the initiative to organize such events that educate the younger generation about their age-old practices and customs. He encouraged the girl students to be determined in their endeavors and to embrace their responsibilities, emphasizing that women play a crucial role in building a prosperous nation and society.
Thungbeny Lotha, the former President of Lotha Eloe Hoho, served as the theme speaker for the event, focusing on “Reviving Traditional Weaving Skills for Cultural Identity and Posterity.” She shed light on the significance and usage of various arts and costumes practiced by their ancestors. Stressing the need to preserve their culture, she highlighted the importance of such programs in ensuring that the disappearing arts and practices are passed on to future generations.
During the seminar’s second session, R Yilobeni Lotha, a member of RWWS and a resource person, addressed the students on the topic “Weave to Earn.” She informed the students about the various categories of weaving and emphasized that learning the art of weaving could become a source of livelihood for those who pursue it professionally. She also encouraged the students to explore the commercial aspects of enhancing traditional attires with various designs.
The interaction session witnessed active participation from the students, who were encouraged to seek training from weaving societies and individual weavers. The program was chaired by Liboni Humtsoe, a member of RWWS, and Dr Abeni Lotha, President of RWWS, delivered the welcome address. Orenponi Ezung proposed the vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to all participants and organizers for making the seminar a success.
The RWWS, established in 2010, has been committed to promoting the rich cultural heritage of the Lotha Naga community. Alongside organizing events like the recent seminar, the society has previously arranged the Miss Tokhü Emong pageant, further reinforcing its efforts to preserve and celebrate the traditions and customs of the Lotha Naga people.
