Dimapur, Dec. 13 (EMN): Coinciding with the annual state Hornbill Festival, the first People’s Festival was held in Kezhakeno under Phek district from December 1-10. The closing function was held on December 10 with S Kepfhelhou Ladu, chairman of Kezhakeno village council, as the chief host and the additional secretary, Kevekha Kevin Zehol, as the guest speaker.
Speaking at the conclusion programme, Kevekha Kevin Zehol congratulated the president and his colleagues of the Khezhakeno youth organisation (KYO), chief host, VCC Khezhakeno and the people of Khezhakeno in general for the successful completion of the 10 days festival despite the meagre fund at disposal and also amidst various constraints.
He conveyed heartfelt appreciation to each and every member of the KYO and all other participants for bearing the biting cold and rendering the best of their services.
“As the ancestral home of the Nagas and more so as a tourist village, people of Khezhakeno should have the qualities of hospitality, truthfulness and honesty that our forefathers were known for,” underscored Kevin Zehol. Apart from the above qualities, people should see in us – helpful, available at time of visitors’ need, loveable people etc, he added.
Stating that Khezhakeno- blessed with the beautiful Chida lake surrounded by the undulating rolling hills and meadows and greenery all around, he said it should be the responsibility of everyone to preserve, promote and protect the beautiful landscape.
Towards this goal, Kevin stated that each one from Khezhakeno village who visits Chida should make a commitment to plant a tree every year. He also requested visitors from within the state to plant a tree. He further asked all to ensure that Chida is kept litter free.
In the near future, with the celebration of the festival, other economic activities like catering, showcasing and sell of local agro-produce can be promoted, he said.
Kevin further said that individual/ group could take on catering in order to increase their income and at the same facilitate visitors to Chida. He also encouraged farmers to venture into cultivating vegetables, fruits, domesticate animals for commercial purpose, weaving etc to improve their economy.
Kephfelhou Ladu also congratulated one and all for the grand success of the 10-day celebration of the People’s Festival at Chida, Khezhakeno. He specially thanked the 5th NAP and Phek DEF for maintaining law and order.
The programme concluded with display of fireworks and singing of traditional songs.
