Our Correspondent
KOHIMA, DECEMBER 2
THE villagers of Kigwema on Tuesday enacted the traditional stone pulling ceremony of the Angami Nagas at Kigwema village, along National Highway-29, as a launching event to the Kigwema Youth Organization (KYO) Platinum Jubilee Meet 2015.
Following an act of sanctification performed by the village head GB Nesakole Mera, a monolith (stone) measuring 15 feet in length, 4 feet wide and 2 feet in thickness, tied with thick and long vines was pulled by hundreds of men in two rows to a stretch of about 1km, from Kipfüzha to Kholera Ground, Kigwema. Clad in their indigenous gears, the men displayed their strength pulling the massive stone intoning traditional cries while the womenfolk waited on them along the roadside.
Myanmarese chief ministers Lajon Ngan Seng of Kachin state and U Thar Aye of Sagaing region who are currently in Nagaland, graced the event as the chief guests. In their brief remarks, the two visiting dignitaries expressed gratitude to the people of Kigwema for giving them the opportunity to be part of the “historic and unforgettable” event. They also presented a work of art to Kigwema village on the occasion to adorn the walls of the village council hall.
Earlier, Rev. Mekhale Yhoshü pronounced the dedication of the monolith. People from neighbouring villages also participated in the programme.
Indigenous activities such as folk songs and games including wrestling, tug-of-war etc were the other highlights of the event.
After a celebratory feast, the elected MLA from Kigwema, Vikho-o Yhoshü proposed the vote of thanks.
