Dimapur, Dec. 6: The rich and diverse culture and traditions of the Nagas were presented to the visitors at Naga Heritage Village, Kisama, by various cultural troupes. The 6th day of the cultural programme was graced by Director General of Army Force Medical Service and Senior CC, Lt. General Manoj Kumar Unni, AVM, VSM, PHS, and GOC 3 Corps, Lt. General Abhay Krishna, AVSM, SM, VSM, as the guests of honour.
Along with thousands of visitors, the guests of honour were treated to a variety of cultural dances presented by various tribes showcasing the diversity and vibrancy of the rich tradition and culture in the State of Nagaland. GOC 3 Corps and DG AFMS also visited Morungs set up by various tribes and stalls showcasing the traditional way of living, art and handicraft of Nagaland.
The General Officers met and complemented young artistes at Craftscape and HIPFEST for showing their mesmerising art work. During their two-day visit to Kohima, they also visited Hornbill Night Carnival and attended the enthralling Music Festival 2016 on December 5.
The cultural presentations began with a war dance ‘Ey-Li-Zui’ by the Khiamniungan tribe of the Pathso Noken cultural troupe. The dance represents a man killed by an enemy in the forest in which men from his village subsequently trace out the enemy and take revenge by raiding the enemy’s village. On account of their victory, they celebrate and perform the dance.
A folk song called ‘Nagaland Riajwni Sikhla Jwng’ was presented by the Kachari tribe of Nagaland. The Sumi tribe from Yephemi village displayed ‘Apukhu Kikti’ (Spear kicking), a traditional game which is played by the men to display their skill and swiftness among them. The real intention of this game is to prepare and equip players to act swiftly in the event of an attack by enemies.
A folk song titled ‘Lakoila’ was presented by the Kuki tribe of Phaojol village which was followed by an indigenous game called ‘Akheyon Kecüü.’ This game is played on the first day of clearing jungle for cultivation to try and determine the outcome of the harvest for the year ahead.
The Garo tribe from Ekranipathar, Dimapur, showcased a traditional game called ‘Wapong Kala’ which tests the strength among the boys. It is played during the Wangala festival.
Angangba village cultural troupe of Sangtam tribe performed a folk song called ‘Ha-Ha’ which is performed by the men folk while they work in the field.
Pholami Dzuvekro cultural troupe of the Chakhesang tribe sang a folk song and presented a dance called ‘Uphe Kuthi Li.’
NTA organises tour programme for visitors
Our Correspondent
Kohima, Dec. 6 : As part of the Hornbill festival, a Kohima city tour was arranged for tourists today by the Nagaland Tourism Association (NTA).
The city tour started at Kisama Heritage village, wherein, the tourists were taken to places like The Cathedral, Kohima War Cemetery, among others.
The city tour, which will continue even tomorrow, will pay a visit to the historic village Khonoma and Kigwema village.
Earlier on the day, the department of Horticulture organised a programme on demonstration on concept of Hydrophonics at Kisama. Online registration of farmers and exhibition-cum-sale of flowers continued thereafter.
The Hornbill International Photo Fest (HIPFEST 2016) also continued for the sixth day at the Eastern Art Council. The results of the HIPFEST 2016 will be declared on day-ten of the Hornbill festival.
A total of 37 participants have submitted their photos for the HIPFEST 2016, which is being held on the theme “Colours of Nagaland”. The deadline for entry of photos was on November 27.
The chief judge for the HIPFEST 2016 included Tom Potisit, a prominent international photographer from Thailand, along with two other judges also from Thailand will be inspecting the photo entries on December 8, it was informed.
The winner of this year’s HIPFEST will fetch a cash award of Rs 35,000, while the 1st and 2nd runners up will be given Rs 20,000 and Rs 10,000 respectively.
Two consolation prizes have also been arranged. They both will receive Rs. 5,000 each.
Day-seven of the Hornbill festival will feature several exciting programmmes. There will also be the flag-off ceremony vintage car rally (WW II) by Nagaland Adventure & Motor Sports Association (NAMSA) at Rüleizou, IG Stadium. There will be a stop over at WAR Cemetery for laying of wreathes, before it heads towards Kisama for the flag in ceremony.
Another interesting programme on day-seven is the Naga Wrestling competition at Amphitheatre, Kisama, while the stilt bamboo walking cpmpetition would also be held tomorrow.
