Sumi community celebrates Tuluni festival in Kohima

DIMAPUR — The Sumi community of New Ministers' Hill colony, Kohima, celebrated its 35th Tuluni festival on Tuesday, with former MLA, Pukhayi Sumi calling upon members of the community to uphold the spirit of unity, compassion, and collective growth.

In his greetings speech, Pukhayi paid tribute to the early Sumi settlers of the colony, acknowledging their vision, resilience, and commitment to building a strong and vibrant community, a DIPR report stated.

“Today is a day of celebration, an occasion to thank the visionary who laid the foundation for the Sumis in the colony. We honour their resilience, their wisdom, and their unwavering commitment to building a thriving community,” he said.

He noted that unity among the residents has been the driving force behind the remarkable progress of the community over the years.

“It is this togetherness that has empowered us to overcome challenges, achieve significant milestones, and witness the tremendous growth we see today,” Pukhayi added.

Encouraging the younger generation to continue the legacy of the elders, the former legislator urged the community to carry forward the values of cooperation, generosity, and mutual support.

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“Let us continue to support one another, extend kindness and compassion, and work hand in hand to build an even brighter future for generations to come,” he said.

Speaking on the significance of the Tuluni festival, Hutoshe Awomi, emphasised the crucial role parents play in educating younger generations about cultural heritage, traditions, and values.

He noted that this intergenerational transmission of knowledge is essential for preserving customs and beliefs.

At the same time, Awomi encouraged the youth to actively engage with these traditions, adapt them to contemporary contexts, and carry them forward into the future.

According to him, this dynamic interplay between generations not only sustains the relevance and vitality of cultural practices but also strengthens communities and fosters a shared sense of identity.

The celebration featured a range of cultural performances, including a special number by Nilokali Rochill and friends, a Tishele performance by the Mother's Group, and traditional songs like Lejole, Akhetsu Kuzu, and Itsani, showcasing the rich Sumi cultural heritage.

The programme was chaired by chairman of Sumi Community, New Ministers Hill, Obed Sheqi. The celebration concluded with the appointment of new office bearers of the Sumi Community for the year 2025–2028, led by Tokugha Yeptho as chairman.

HBSSCK celebrates Tuluni with community spirit

The High School, Bayavü, Sepfüzou Sümi Community Kohima (HBSSCK) also celebrated its 27th Tuluni Tiqhe‑Tini Küpüghü at the Capital Convention Centre, New Secretariat.

An update from the community stated that Tuluni, one of the main festivals of the Sümi Naga tribe, is a time of joy, thanksgiving and unity. It added that the festival marks the season of plenty and is celebrated with feasts, traditional rituals and social bonding.

Hetovi Kappo, president of HBSSCK, highlighted the importance of the festival stating that it promotes reconciliation, gift exchange and even traditional arrangements of marriage betrothals.

“Tuluni is a time for rest and joy after months of hard work,” he said.

The event was chaired by its finance secretary, Ito Aye, with the joint secretary, Vetoli H Chophy, as the recorder. The programme began with a prayer said by Alti Chophi, associate pastor of SBCK Fellowship.

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Cultural performances were led by Azanoqo, Ghonili, Shohe, and Newly Khujumi, while Akiyetou and Akini Yekikithiu presented reports on community activities.

A folk song was performed by Apunoqo, Zhetovi Chophi and Hushito Assumi.

A drama on traditional Sümi marriage proposal ‘Kughupu Kighini’ was presented by Lhothemi qo group with Ibeto V Swu playing a key role.

Rev. Dr. Kiyeto Sema, senior pastor of SABCK, delivered the festival address, stressing the importance of preserving culture, spiritual growth and youth involvement. A song was presented by Vito S Swu and the vice chairman, Tokavi Chophi, delivered the vote of thanks.

The celebration ended with a blessing from Dr. L Botoholi Yeptho, associate pastor (general) of SBCK, followed by a community feast.