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Women sing a folk song during the festivities at Khuochiezie, in Kohima, on March 16.[/caption]
Our Correspondent
Kohima, March 16 (EMN): Four khels in Kohima— Tsütuonuomia, Dapfütsumia, Pfüchatsumia, and Lhisiemia of Kohima village—celebrated a festival Kewhimia Sekrenyi with the theme ‘Ramia Therhu’ (Tenyidie for pride of Kewhimia), on March 16 at Khuochiezie in Kohima.
The chairman of P Khel of the village, Kruyie Pienyü spoke on behalf of the four khels. He said that the common celebration was being held once every five years as decided. He explained that the festival signified purification of oneself and a time to come closer to God.
Emphasising on the importance of promoting Tenyidie, he said that there was no shame in not being able to speak English, but not knowing how to speak Tenyidie was a shame among the community. One cannot expect others to respect the language if one does not know how to speak own language, he said.
Saying that not everything is learnt in school and colleges, Kruyie Pienyü encouraged the people to preserve the good traditions and cultures of forefathers. In fact, he said, good practices should be taught at homes and in the community. The good traits should be preserved and be able to reach to the next generation, he added.
Further, Pienyü urged the youngsters to respect their elders and lead an upright life. With the elections around the corner, the chairman advised the people to abstain from corrupt activities. Keeping in mind the festival of sanctification, he encouraged the people to forgive each other and start doing ‘good things.’
Chairman of Kohima Village Council (KVC) Dr Neiphi Kire also addressed the event. In his speech, he said that the Kewhimia Panchayat system was recognised circa 1945. He informed that he was the 18th chairman of the council. He expressed concern at the increasing number of illegal immigrants in the state and urged the people to step forward and tackle the issue with united efforts.
On the line of Kohima being rated the ‘second most unliveable city in the country,’ by the ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs in 2018, he urged the citizens to come forward and take the responsibility to do away with the tag. One should not wait for the departments, or administration to ‘clear up such tag been given, but ought to contribute for the betterment of the society.’ He advised the people to manage waste, maintain cleanliness in their own homes and areas.
This time around, the celebration was a plastic-free festival in line with the government’s campaign. From drinking water to Sekrenyi feast, recyclable plates and cups were used. The public brought their own plates, cups, and water bottles. Activities including tug-of-war, bamboo split race, folk songs were some of the features of the event.
