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DIMAPUR — The National Handloom Day 2023 (NHD) was observed on Monday at Chizami, Phek district, with the theme ‘fostering diversity and inclusivity, enabling and empowering women weavers.’
The event was organised by NEN & NENterprise in collaboration with SEWA Shakti Kendra, Pfutsero; Community Health Centre, Chizami; District Industries Centre, Chozuba; Aadhaar Agency, Pfutsero; State Bank of India, Chizami; and District Welfare Office, Phek.
In her address as the event's guest speaker, Zhonelu Tunyi, president of the Chakhesang Mothers' Association, expressed her gratitude to the women weavers, particularly the Chakhesang women, who have continued the traditional weaving practice and are at the forefront of preserving the rich culture.
She also emphasised the significance of exercising existing skills and adding value to them rather than relying solely on formal education to earn a living. She urged the weavers to be consistent and persistent in order to reach their goals.
[bsa_pro_ad_space id=1]Tunyi congratulated the winners of the various awards while encouraging the others to work harder in order to be winners tomorrow, noting that they all have the potential to do so.
She stated that the weavers are equivalent to those with the highest level of education because they are experts in their respective fields. She appealed to the weavers to adhere to the values of honesty and unity to achieve success.
Earlier, delivering the welcome address, Nietshope-u Thopi, general manager, NENeterprise, highlighted the background of the NHD, stating that it is annually celebrated across the country. He mentioned that the NHD aims to acknowledge and promote the rich heritage as well as recognise its contribution to socio-economic growth.
The event showcased the weavers' skills through a design competition organised by NENterprise among the existing 900 weavers' network across Phek.
Wetiu Kreo of Zapami village, Mhalevino of Chizami village, and Khapu Kenye of Zapami village won the best design and weaving awards.
Acknowledging the contribution of weavers who have supported Chizami Weaves to grow substantially in the last 15 years, Neitshulou Chirhah, a 75-year-old weaver from Chizami village, was awarded the award of ‘eldest weaver’.
The event was attended by 164 people from Chizami, Chizami town, Sumi, Thetsumi, Enhulumi, Mesulumi, Pfutsero, Zapami, Sakraba, Khomi, Chozuba, Yoruba, Phuhgi, Runguzu, and Ruzazho villages.