The much-anticipated Ahuna Festival 2024 commenced today at the Public Ground in Zunheboto, where the Sümi Hoho, alongside its various frontal organizations, has planned a three-day celebration of tradition, unity, and community spirit, informed a press release by the Sümi Hoho Media Cell.

Day one witnessed a “Sümi Kükümügha Hoho” (Sümi Blessing Service), where hundreds gathered to seek blessings and partake in this sacred Sümi festival. The opening day’s ceremonial program was graced by A. Pitoho Chophy, Member of the Nagaland Public Service Commission, who was warmly welcomed and felicitated by the Sümi Hoho for his recent appointment.

The Sümi Hoho President, Dr. Vihuto Asumi, delivered the keynote address, emphasizing the importance of preserving cultural heritage while evolving in step with modernity. Dr. Asumi spoke to the gatheri’g about embracing the blessin’s of Ahuna as a time of gratitude, unity, and forward momentum for the Sümi people.

A prayer of blessings was offered by Dr. Hutton Sümi, Pastor of the Sümi Baptist Church Zunheboto, invoking divine guidance for the Sümi community. Following this, God’s message was delivered by the Pastor of the Zunheboto Town Sümi Baptist Church, encouraging the community to uphold faith, resilience, and communal harmony. The program commenced with an invocation pronounced by Ghunato Assumi, Associate Pastor of the Sümi Baptist Church Zunheboto, and concluded with a benediction by Aketo Yepthomi, Youth Leader of the Zunheboto Town Sümi Baptist Church.

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In his address, A. Pitoho Chophy urged the community to be agents of positive change, fostering progress while remaining deeply rooted in the values and traditions that define the Sümi Identity. Chophy called upon the gathering to keep pace with the rapidly changing world, reminding them that growth and adaptability are crucial to the community’s future.

The formal program was followed by an Ahuna night carnival, which was inaugurated by Zunheboto Town Council Chairperson Herato Sukhalu. The carnival set a joyous tone for the days ahead, with a variety of cultural performances, stalls featuring traditional crafts, and local delicacies, all contributing to a memorable start to this year’s Ahuna celebrations.

The Ahuna Festival will continue on November 13 and 14, with an array of events aimed at showcasing Sümi heritage and fostering unity among the community.