Tikhir community celebrates Tsonglak-nyi in Kiusam town

DIMAPUR — A four-day Tsonglak-nyi festival of the Tikhir community got underway on October 9 in Kiusam town under Kiphire district on the theme “Pojü vila peinü mütsin vi-ei” (Live culturally by tradition). A common celebration was held on Friday.

Speaking on the theme “Live culturally by tradition,” Rev. Fr. Thomas Toretkiu stated that it means embracing and practicing heritage, values, beliefs and customs. He exhorted older persons to teach their history, traditional dance, culture, music, art and other creative expression to the younger generation.

“Our cultural is our identity, allowing good values to shape our beliefs. We should foster community cohesion and social bonds. We should exhibit our good values of sanctification, purify and humility before God,” Fr. Toretkiu said.

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He stated that the festival is an occasion to renew culture, introspect and build relationship within community and others. He went on to state that the festival was to remind of discipline, hard work, peace loving and the blessings of God.

“When this tradition of Tsonglak-nyi festival is not shared in modern times, our identity could be missed out. Our cultural fabric, unique identity and heritage should be encouraged learn by all,” he added.

An update from the organisers stated that Teachang, committee chairman; T Thangpong, head GB; S Khesang, public leader; Muraimong, head DB of Kiusam headquarters, and MK Shukiu spoke on the history and purpose of Tsonglak-nyi.

The celebration began with a prayer said by P Rangthong, pastor of KTBC, and concluded with prayer said by Samuel Kurak, catechist of SJCKT.

To mark the occasion, a penalty shootout was organised by Hunter-11, wherein the Young Stars secured the first prize among 8 participating teams.