KOHIMA — The Khezhakeno Welfare Society Kohima (KWSK) celebrated its golden jubilee with enthusiasm and festivity on Saturday in Kohima.
Extending greetings on the momentous occasion, MLA Dr. Neisatuo Mero expressed gratitude to the Almighty for uniting them to celebrate this historic 50th anniversary event. He congratulated KWSK president and various jubilee committee leaders and members for their spirited organisation of the celebration.
Mero also paid tribute to the pioneers and former leaders who had come together to establish the society.
[bsa_pro_ad_space id=1]He reflected on the jubilee theme, "Nagas are one, united we march together for a better tomorrow.”
Based on this theme, he emphasised the importance of following in the footsteps of their forefathers and grandparents, learning from their examples of unity and togetherness.
Highlighting that Khezhakeno is not only an ancestral and heritage village for the Chakhesang community but for Nagas as a whole, he noted that many Naga villages and tribes claim their migration from this village.
He underlined the significance of Khezhakeno and the impact it has had on the wider Naga community.
Mero encouraged villagers and society members to reflect on their forefathers' struggles and the foundations they laid.
He encouraged students, youths, entrepreneurs, and government servants from Khezhakeno to give their best, emphasizing the importance of seizing opportunities while stressing the unity and blessings of the jubilee, urging all Nagas to move forward as one family.
Kevechüpe Pfüno, the president of KWSK, outlined the society's objectives, which include promoting and uplifting its members and addressing community needs.
He acknowledged the society's accomplishments and the role of its members in serving the broader community.
Pfüno also stressed the importance of commitment among the society's members and the need to uphold their core values and principles for continued success in their community.
Salhoutuonuo Kruse, minister of Women Resource Development and Horticulture, described the jubilee as a memorable day, emphasising gratitude for the blessings received over generations.
She encouraged self-reflection, recognizing the need for change and forgiveness, and the importance of planning for a brighter future.
Kruse celebrated Khezhakeno's rich history and contribution to education and employment while hoping that Nagas would follow their positive examples.
Addressing the danger of disunity, Kruse commended KWSK for their unity and coordination, considering the jubilee as a symbol of unity and leadership within the community.
Helievio Solo, Chairman of Kohima Village Council, called for nurturing brotherhood and building harmoniously for future generations while emphasisin the importance of unity, cooperation, and prosperity.
Damendra Prasad, principal chief conservator of forest, shared his close association with the Chakhesang community and their admirable respect for elders.
He encouraged the people of Khezhakeno to grow and shine in the coming years.
The occasion featured a moment of silence to honor departed pioneers of KWSK, the virtual unveiling of the jubilee monolith, the release of a jubilee souvenir, and musical performances by the Western Khezhakeno Union, Khezhakeno cultural troupe, and the jubilee choir.
The event included felicitations for various personalities including Velaho Zehol, the only surviving office bearer of KWSK from 1973, as well as former presidents of the society and their in-laws.
The programme was chaired by Kevekha Kevin Zehol, Commissioner and Secretary. Rev. Dr. Vetso Koza, the pastor of Chakhesang Baptist Church Kohima, invoked God's blessings, and Rev. Z. David Koza, Executive Secretary of CCCRC, offered the benediction.
An enthralling evening extravaganza followed, featuring various artists from Khezhakeno.
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