The Sümi Hoho organised an Ahuna Musical Evening at Suruhuto Town on November 13, with the Suruhuto Area Public Organisation hosting the programme.
The musical evening was graced by Tokavi Achumi, NPS, Commandant, 8 NAP Battalion, Naltoqa, as the Special Guest, while Hukiyé Yepthomi, President of the Central Nagaland Tribes Council, attended as the Tribal Guest.
Tokavi Achumi, NPS, Commandant, 8 NAP Battalion, Naltoqa while delivering his speech as the Special Guest at the Ahuna Musical Evening highlighted the spiritual, cultural, social and environmental significance of Ahuna, calling upon the Sümi community to preserve its traditional values while adapting to changing times.
Speaking on the theme of Ahuna, he described the festival as an expression of collective thanksgiving to God, acknowledging that human labour alone could not bring prosperity without divine providence. He emphasised that Ahuna was an occasion to recognise God’s faithfulness, blessings and sustenance throughout the year and to seek His continued guidance for the future.
He also drew attention to the traditional practice of offering and sharing the first harvest, relating it to the biblical principle of giving God the firstfruits. He stated that the essence of thanksgiving extended beyond agricultural harvests to include education, careers, businesses, good health, peace and other blessings in everyday life.
Highlighting the community-building aspect of Ahuna, he said that sharing food, extending hospitality and caring for neighbours, elders, widows and the less fortunate were among the festival’s defining values. He emphasised that the tradition of eating together symbolised equality, fellowship and reconciliation, where differences in social status, wealth and position were set aside.
He further stressed that Ahuna historically served as an occasion for settling misunderstandings, resolving conflicts and restoring relationships before coming together in celebration. He urged the Sümi community to rise above factionalism, political rivalries and social divisions, stating that collective prosperity depended on unity, mutual respect and a strong sense of belonging.
Addressing the changing social landscape, he observed that although fewer people today depended directly on traditional agriculture, the significance of Ahuna remained relevant. He described the festival as a common cultural and spiritual identity for Sümi people living across different districts and outside Nagaland, providing an opportunity for families, communities and younger generations to reconnect with their roots.
He also underscored the responsibility of preserving indigenous knowledge and traditional practices, including the preparation of Ahuna rice in bamboo segments, the use of traditional leaf utensils, folk songs, dances and the Sümi language. He cautioned that without deliberate efforts to pass these traditions on to younger generations, valuable cultural knowledge could gradually disappear.
On environmental conservation, he highlighted the ecological wisdom embedded in traditional Ahuna celebrations, particularly the use of bamboo and plantain leaves instead of plastic and other non-biodegradable materials. He encouraged greater environmental consciousness through sustainable practices, forest conservation, responsible use of natural resources and reducing plastic waste during community celebrations.
He further cautioned against the growing tendency to commercialise festivals and turn celebrations into displays of wealth and status, stating that such practices could overshadow the original spirit of humility, simplicity, generosity and gratitude.
Concluding his address, he called for the continued preservation of Ahuna not merely as an annual festival but as a living expression of faith, cultural identity, community solidarity and environmental responsibility. He emphasised that the younger generation must understand the deeper meaning of their traditions and carry their values forward for generations to come.
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Hukiye K Yepthomi, President of the Central Nagaland Tribes Council (CNTC) while addressing the gathering as the tribal guest called upon the Sümi community to unite for collective progress and demonstrate a genuine commitment towards positive change.
Emphasising the importance of unity, mutual understanding and collective responsibility, he stated that the overall advancement of the community could only be achieved through a shared vision and collective efforts.
Highlighting the significance of Ahuna, he described it as an important traditional festival of the Sümi community, symbolising thanksgiving, sharing, togetherness and the preservation of cultural identity. He noted that Ahuna was not merely a harvest celebration but also an occasion to reflect on the community’s rich heritage, values and responsibilities towards future generations. He encouraged the community to remain rooted in its traditions while embracing positive changes and progressive ideas.
He further stressed the importance of understanding and supporting leaders, stating that while constructive criticism was necessary, constant criticism without cooperation and support could discourage leadership efforts and hinder progress. He urged the public to recognise the responsibilities and challenges faced by those entrusted with leadership and extend constructive support rather than merely finding fault. He also called for stronger cooperation among leaders, institutions and the public in achieving common goals.
In conclusion, he expressed gratitude to the Sümi Hoho for inviting the Central Nagaland Tribes Council to be part of the celebration and conveyed his warm wishes to the Sümi community on the occasion of Ahuna.
The programme was chaired by Otova Swu, Vice President of Sümi Hoho. Salomi Shikhu and Katoni Awomi served as the comperes, while the invocation prayer was offered by Ino Lashiho Chishi, Pastor of Suruhuto Town Baptist Church (SBAK Aizuto).
A major highlight of the evening was the special musical performance by the Mahila Band of the 15 NAP (IR) Mahila Battalion, Chümoukedima. Local artists also showcased their musical talents, adding colour and vibrancy to the celebration.
The event brought people together through music, fellowship and cultural celebration, marking the Ahuna festivities in a spirit of unity and togetherness.
