The Lotha community begins four-day Tokhü Emong celebrations at Wokha with cultural events and stalls
WOKHA — The Lotha community ushered in its premier post-harvest festival, Tokhü Emong, with the inauguration of a four-day celebration at the public ground in Wokha on Wednesday.
Lotha Hoho Chairman Mhondamo Ovung attended the inaugural programme and formally declared the commencement of the festival by launching the four-day celebration and unveiling the mega Tokhü stalls.
Addressing the gathering, Ovung highlighted the significance of Tokhü Emong and clarified the perceived contradiction between Christianity and the traditional festival.
He stated that the celebration was not intended to contradict religious beliefs but to preserve the roots, identity, culture, and heritage of the Lotha community, in keeping with the tradition of other Naga tribes that celebrate their respective festivals.
Describing Tokhü Emong as an occasion to express gratitude to God for the abundant blessings received throughout the year, he said the festival also provides an opportunity to seek forgiveness, exchange gifts, and strengthen bonds of unity and togetherness. He stressed the importance of preserving cultural traditions while remaining firmly rooted in faith.
The programme commenced with an invocation by retired pastor Rev. Tssopemo Ngullie of AG Wokha, while the inaugural prayer was offered by Rev. Abemo Jungio, Pastor of Wokha Town Baptist Church. Students of Isaiah Ability School, Wokha, presented a folk song.
The rules and regulations governing the festival stalls were read out by Lotha Hoho Cultural Secretary Yihamo Patton.
The second day of the celebration, on November 5, will be attended by Deputy Commissioner of Wokha K Mhathung Tsanglao and will feature various indigenous games of the Lotha Nagas.