Ngada festival: CL John cautions against division among Nagas

DIMAPUR — The second day of the Ngada festival was observed on November 28 in Tseminyu.

The special guest, CL John, minister of Forest, Environment and Climate Change, Village Guards, reflected on Ngada as a post-harvest festival and traced its journey from ancient practice to its current form.

He noted how the festival, once strictly rooted in tribal traditions, has transformed through the coming of Christianity, according to an update.

John observed that despite Nagaland’s rich cultural mosaic, unity remains an ongoing struggle. He cautioned that divisions within Naga society hinder true peace. Speaking on the “Festival of Festivals”, he praised the vision of the chief minister, noting that it has allowed the world to recognise Nagas and their culture on the global map.

He encouraged the audience to keep Christianity at the core as a foundation for unity and reconciliation. He highlighted the blessings enjoyed by the Rengma people and urged them to be peacemakers among other tribes.

Also read: Ngada festival celebrated in Chümoukedima

Unity, he stressed, is not the responsibility of a few leaders but of every Naga, and each individual must contribute to its realisation.

MLA and District Planning and Development Board of Tseminyu Chairman, Jwenga Seb, delivered a speech as the host of the event. He reaffirmed the commitment of the government and community to support and uplift indigenous traditions.

Earlier, in his welcome address, Rengma Hoho President Tesinlo Semy highlighted the significance of Ngada as a festival rooted in thanksgiving and harmony, stating that the celebration represents the collective identity and resilience of the Rengma community.

Ngada greetings were offered by leaders representing Naga civil societies. Thejao Vihienuo, president of the Angami Public Organisation, and Dr. Vihuto Asumi, president of Sümi Hoho, extended their wishes and underscored the importance of inter-tribal solidarity.

They encouraged the Rengma people to continue preserving their cultural heritage while strengthening bonds with other Naga tribes. The programme was chaired by Timothy Thong, vice president of the Rengma Hoho.