The Benreului Nkwa Kohima celebrated its 53rd Lamsimngyi Festival at The Garden, Kohima, on October 31, bringing together members of the community across generations to celebrate their rich cultural heritage, traditions and shared identity.
Addressing the gathering, Rangumbuing Nsarangbe, Chairman of NBSE, encouraged young aspirants to pursue their dreams with hard work, dedication and discipline, emphasising that these qualities are essential for achieving success.
He also acknowledged the elders and pioneers who initiated the celebration of the Lamsimngyi Festival, noting that it has grown beyond an annual cultural event to become an important platform for the Benreului community residing in Kohima to come together, reconnect and strengthen their bonds.
He further observed that such gatherings provide a valuable opportunity for community members, particularly the younger generation, to interact, get to know one another better and foster a stronger sense of unity and belonging.
Exhorting the gathering, Er Swarai Meru, Engineer in Chief, PWD said that their forefathers were known for their honesty and commitment to keeping their word. He encouraged the younger generation to emulate the good values and examples set by their elders, stressing the importance of honouring one’s words and standing by the commitments made.
He stated that keeping one’s word reflects not only one’s true character but also demonstrates respect for the person to whom a promise has been made.
Download Nagaland Tribune app on Google Play
He also underscored the importance of speaking, promoting and preserving the native language, cautioning that it could gradually become extinct if it is not passed on to the younger generation. He therefore urged parents to recognise their responsibility in teaching their children their mother tongue and making it a part of everyday life.
He further encouraged families to practise reading the Bible in their own dialect, which would help children become familiar with their language while also nurturing their spiritual growth.
A notable highlight of the celebration was the traditional presentation of a pork leg to a bride-to-be from the community. The gesture signifies love, respect and the strong bonds of unity and belonging within the community.
The celebration also featured a range of traditional activities, including indigenous games, wrestling competitions for both young and old, and traditional attire competitions.
The 53rd Lamsimngyi Festival served not only as a celebration of cultural traditions but also as a reminder of the importance of preserving one’s language, faith, values and ancestral legacy. The gathering reaffirmed the community’s shared commitment to keeping its heritage alive while inspiring future generations to cherish their roots and carry the legacy forward.
