Dimapur, March 31 (EMN): Chief minister Dr. Shurhozelie Liezietsu has greeted the Phom and Konyak communities on the occasion of Monyiu and Aoleang Monyu festival celebrations.
He said a spring festival is normally observed in the first week of April after the sowing is done in paddy fields in order to invoke God’s blessing to have a bountiful harvest.
Stating that Monyiu marks the end of winter and the onset of spring, he said traditionally, it is a time for jubilation, sharing of love and concern with relatives and friends by exchanging gifts, rice beer, meat and various food items and also by making merriment. He said Monyiu is also the time when young boys and girls would be taught the customary practices which needs to be upheld.
He said Monyiu is also the time when young boys renew the curtail relationship with their close friends by inviting them to have feasts, which is called ‘Mongchemba Hahying.’
The chief minister expressed happiness that Phom youngsters are making strong efforts to rediscover and preserve their rich cultural heritage. Stating that students’ unions of every Phom village are playing commendable role in this direction, he added that the Phom-Naga youngsters must also continue to make every effort for the preservation and development of our rich cultural heritage.
The chief minister also said Konyak community celebrates Aoleang Mongyu to mark the end of a year and heralds the coming of a new agrarian year.
On the occasion of Aoleang Monyu, the chief minister urged all to pray to the Almighty for a successful and bountiful year and forge ahead with renewed vigour into the coming year.
Stating that festival is observed to showcases the rich cultural heritage with indigenous dances, songs and games combined with the modern musical talents of the Konyak people, he said urged upon everyone to always protect and preserve and promote culture.
On the occasion, he appealed all to develop relationships between the government and the people, between people of various communities and bridge communication gaps and at the same time, promote peace, culture and progress.
