Dozhuhu Swuro wins traditional fire-making competition

Kohima Bureau
Kisama, Dec. 3 (EMN): Dozhuhu Swuro of Chakhesang community emerged as the winner in the traditional fire-making competition held on December 3 at Kisama Heritage village.
25 year-old Swuro, who hails from Thenyizu village under Phek district, came out victorious from among eight persons who took part in the competition.
The second and third prizes were omitted as none of the other participants could make the fire during the allotted time. The other participants were Arenlong (Ao), Moshayemjong (Chang), Lamtinsei (Kuki), Sarop Sangma (Garo), Thangkhao (Konyak), Dolie (Angami) and Hekato (Sema).
Earlier, the chief guest of the day Lt. Gen. Shokin Chauhan, the Director General of Assam Rifles, in his address, described Nagaland as a cultural mosaic of diverse multi-ethnicity.
“The culture you have displayed is not only about colourful costumes, dances and songs, but is also reflective of strength, honesty and simplicity of the society and the great warrior tradition which runs in the blood of every Naga,” he said and stressed on the need to preserve and promote the cultural heritage for the future generation and further set an example for the rest of the country to emulate.
“We must take a pledge to re-dedicate ourselves to the commitment of shaping a peaceful, progressive and developed Nagaland,” he said expressing hope that the state would be an even more important stakeholder of the Indian union in the years to come.
“The Assam Rifles would leave no stone unturned to assist you all in whatever manner possible in achieving these noble goals,” he added.
Day-three of the festival also featured the cultural performances of various Naga tribes, and continuation of the Hornbill International Photo Fest (HIPFEST), Naga Chef Season, horse riding and pony-cart transportation, crafts-cape, etc.
Meanwhile, the Hornbill International Wrestling championship would be held on Dec. 4 at the amphitheatre, Kisama from 9 am. A total of 45 Naga wrestlers from Angami, Chakhesang and Zeliang communities would be participating in the tournament.
It was informed that wrestlers from Maharashtra, Karnataka, New Delhi and Mizoram would be taking part in the event.
Starting from this year, a separate championship has been arranged for tourists. Therefore, tourists willing to participate may do so by spot registration.
Highlight of day-four also includes Hornbill Angling festival at Chubi Bridge, Doyang, Pangti village, folk tune competition at Kisama and Kohima Downhill Mountain Bike Race from Viswema village to World War II premises at Kisama.