Advisor Tongpang calls for unity and cultural preservation
Advisor Tongpang calls for unity and cultural preservation
Longmisa village in Mokokchung came alive with vibrant display of culture and tradition as the premier festival of the Ao Naga ‘Moatsü’ was celebrated.
Tongpang Ozukum addressing the public during Moatsü celebration
in Longmisa village on May 3.
LONGMISA — Longmisa
village in Mokokchung district came alive with vibrant display of culture and
tradition as the premier festival of the Ao Naga ‘Moatsü’ was celebrated at the
village playground on May 3.
The event was attended by Tongpang Ozukum, MLA and advisor
of Water Resources, as the chief guest.
In his address, Ozukum congratulated Longmisa Government
High School for achieving a 100% pass rate in the recent HSLC examinations and
lauded the students, teachers, parents and village community for their
collective effort.
Expressing personal joy, he declared the 2025 Moatsü
festival in Longmisa as “the most special” in his life and thanked the Longmisa
Village Council and organising committee for creating a platform for shared
celebration.
“Moatsü is a festival of gratitude, celebrated post-sowing
to seek God’s blessings and strengthen community bonds,” he said and termed the
timely rainfall as divine affirmation of the event’s significance.
Ozukum raised concerns about the erosion of Ao and Naga
identity due to western cultural influences, particularly the decline of the Ao
language and traditional practices like respectful greetings. He lauded
Longmisa for upholding ancestral values through such festivals, which educate
and ground younger generations.
Commending the Kosasanger Putu (village leadership
generation) for their visionary leadership, he announced INR 25 lakh commitment
for developing a new village ground, starting in December.
Responding to the village council’s representation on road
maintenance and connectivity, Ozukum has assured support and expressed hope for
swift progress as the village nears its centenary.
Reflecting on the historical friendship between Longmisa and
his native Mongsenyimti, Ozukum emphasised their enduring bond.
“Our forefathers ensured no enmity exists between our
villages, and this legacy of mutual respect continues,” he said.
Acknowledging political differences during elections, he
stressed that such variations are natural in a democracy and should not fracture
relationships.
“Elections bring competition, but Moatsü is a time for
unity. Let go of grudges—I carry no ill will and I believe Longmisa feels the
same,” he affirmed, urging the community to embrace forgiveness.
Ozukum further called for collaboration across the twelve
areas of the Angetyongpang Assembly Constituency, highlighting Longmisa’s
pivotal role as the largest among them.
“Under your exemplary leadership, let us journey together
toward a brighter future,” he said, encouraging collective responsibility to
shape a prosperous path forward.
The welcome address was delivered by Merensosang, chairman
of Longmisa Village Council, while the significance of Moatsü was delivered by
TT Toshitemsu. Onentiba, chairman of Longkong Village Council, shared greeting
and Merenshilu performed “Moatsü Benjungmung Washiteper.”
The Longmisa Kaketshir Senden Reju presented the Longmisa
Suyimer and Imotoshi, convenor of the planning committee, delivered the vote of
thanks.
The second session titled ‘Moatsü Saya’ showcased cultural
performances including Tongshibo by Tatsüngtet Zünga, Alu ken by Longmisa Watsü
Telen, Jajatsü kangtepba by Süngpo and Süngsapang Zünga, Longmisa meyü by Pur
Puti, Yar tsüngsang by Tamanir Cultural Club, Arr atsütepba between Ongkolang
Zünga vs. Pokla Zünga and Arr ken by Longmisa Senso Telongjem Mokokchung.
The celebration concluded with a traditional Moatsü feast,
encapsulating the festival’s spirit of community and gratitude.
