Tokhü Emong is a time to forgive and renew, says MLA Achumbemo Kikon

WOKHA — The Tokhü Emong Mini Hornbill Festival, commemorating the premier harvest festival of the Lotha Nagas, commenced at the Public Ground in Wokha town on Wednesday.

Tokhü Emong, observed annually in the first week of November, marks the end of the agricultural season and is a time of thanksgiving, reconciliation, and renewal of bonds among families and villages.

Achumbemo Kikon, secretary general of the Naga People’s Front (NPF), MLA and chairman of SDPDB Bhandari, attended the occasion as the special guest.

Addressing the gathering, Kikon underscored the significance of responsibility and critical thinking as essential tools for societal progress. He reflected on the historical roots of Tokhü Emong, celebrated since time immemorial, and its enduring role in fostering unity and reconciliation within the Lotha community.

“Tokhü Emong is a time to forgive and renew,” he said, urging the community to introspect on the true essence of the festival and uphold its spirit through unity and compassion.

Calling for societal transformation, Kikon emphasised the need to nurture enlightened minds and strengthen relationships through collective efforts.

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He advocated for community-driven initiatives such as sanitation drives across Wokha district, linking them to climate resilience and sustainable development.

Encouraging intellectual leadership, he appealed to Lotha citizens to lead with clarity and empathy and to contribute to the broader Naga society. He also informed that the state would soon initiate a trial census exercise, urging citizens to participate with honesty and fairness.

The programme was chaired by Lirhonthung E Kithan, president of the Lotha Students’ Union, while the welcome address was delivered by Thungjamo Erui, advisor of Lotha Hoho.

Following the formal programme, Kikon inaugurated the festival stalls, marking the beginning of a three-day celebration featuring folk song competitions, cultural showcases, indigenous games, and exhibitions of traditional food and handicrafts.

Traditional competitions and cultural showcases

As part of the festival, a traditional competition was held, featuring events such as traditional weaving and folksong performances across various categories.

In the live demonstration of traditional weaving—from cotton processing to cloth making—the N Longidang Women Cultural Troupe emerged as the winner. Wokha Town Akuk Women Cultural Troupe and Wokha village were adjudged first and second runners-up, respectively.

In the men’s folksong category, Wokha Town Akuk Cultural Troupe secured the top position. For the women’s category, Wokha Town Women Cultural Troupe won first place, followed by N Longidang Cultural Troupe and Wokha Town Wozhuro Range Cultural Society as first and second runners-up.

In the youth category, Thithanro Von was declared the winner.

WTLE hosts pre-Tokhü Emong

The Wokha Town Lakhuti Ekhung (WTLE) also hosted a pre-Tokhü Emong celebration on Wednesday in Wokha town, with Mhathung Yanthan, MLA and advisor for Agriculture, attending the occasion as the special guest.

In a brief address, Yanthan commended WTLE for its dedication and resilience in fostering unity both within and beyond the community. He praised their support and presence across various societal platforms.

Highlighting Lakhuti Village’s recognition as one of the leading villages among the Lothas, Yanthan urged its members to uphold their reputation by being responsible individuals and setting positive examples, as their actions reflect the village’s image.

He further appreciated WTLE members for their contributions to society and encouraged them to continue being trendsetters.

The celebration was chaired by Zubemo Ngullie, chairman of WTLE, and featured a cultural performance by the WTLE Cultural Club.