Thonoknyu Town witnessed the grand celebration of Khaozaosie Hok-Ah, the festival of Feast and Rest, on January 21. The event was organized by the Khiamniungan Tribal Council with support from the Government of Nagaland and partnerships with the District Administration Noklak, Khiamniungan Students’ Union, Khiamniungan Menyiu Hoikam, and Noklak District Handloom and Handicraft Council.
The festival brought the community together with vibrant cultural dances performed by various villages, symbolizing unity and togetherness.
Special guest Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio, addressed the gathering emphasizing the importance of preserving Nagaland’s rich culture and traditions. He highlighted that each Naga tribe has unique agricultural festivals that reflect their heritage. While acknowledging the impact of Christianity and westernization, Rio urged the people not to lose their traditional roots.
The CM also spoke about Article 371(A), a special provision safeguarding Nagaland’s cultural practices, which enables tribal festivals to be celebrated peacefully. He advocated for peace and unity among the Nagas, emphasizing that development is only possible in a harmonious environment.
Rio called on border communities to maintain peace, being at the frontline of the state, and mentioned initiatives like oil exploration as potential gateways to unprecedented development in Nagaland. He urged the youth to strive for progress while preserving their cultural heritage and traditions. Additionally, he stressed building strong partnerships between the Nagas and international communities, such as Japan, to create opportunities for Naga youth.
The CM also praised the success of the Hornbill Festival in showcasing the rich Naga heritage to thousands of tourists which is a gateway of promoting the state’s culture on a global platform.
Earlier, Chief Minister Rio hoisted the Khiamniungan Tribal Council (KTC) flag and later inaugurated the handicraft stalls, taking time to interact with cultural troupes and inspect their performances.
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Festival Host MLA Benei M Lamthiu in his festival greetings said that Khiamniungans from Sunrise to Sunset( India and Myanmar) is united through Culture. He lauded Rio for being the brain-child of the mini- Hornbill festival with the vision of maintaining unity. Lamthiu said festival is a time of thanksgiving for good harvest and forgiveness and to bridge the gap between.
The Deputy Commissioner Noklak expressed his gratitude to the Government of Nagaland and Chief Minister for their support in preserving cultural heritage and making the festival a success. He highlighted the progress made in Thonoknyu under the Aspirational Block Program, launched in January 2023, despite facing challenges, and emphasized the need for continued government intervention. He urged everyone to unite in peace and harmony, using the festival as an opportunity to celebrate traditions and reaffirm their commitment to preserving them for future generations.
KTC president, Ngon in his welcome address submitted a memorandum highlighting the upgradation of SDO (C) to ADC, Thonoknyu Hq. under Noklak District , Upgradation of EAC to SDO (C) Panso, reminder for new post creations of EAC & ITC Dan under Noklak District, reminder for new post creation EAC Hq. at Peshu Hq. and establishment of Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya JNV at Thonoknyu Hq.
Earlier, the program was chaired by Lushian H and Putsu P, Pastor Allo, Thonoknyu Town Baptist Church invoked the event, folk fusion was presented by Tupong & Thango, special presentation by Jumie lam followed by inauguration of Handicraft stalls and inspection of cultural troupes by the guest.
