The Chang Students Union Saksi organised the significance of Naknyulum Festival at Sao Chang College Tuensang on August 1. The celebration was graced by Lanutemsu Ao, Deputy Commandant Adjudant 3rd NAP as the Special Guest.
Extending festival greetings to all the chang people, Ao’s speech focused on the significance and beliefs of the Naknyulum. Considering Naknyulum as a significant part of building relations, Ao highlighted the importance of a cohesive society.
“Everyone is so busy with their own lives but this is the best time to build a good relationship with different tribes, families, friends and in-laws,” said Ao.
He viewed that festival is all about culture which includes language, food behaviour, custom, attire, traditional dance and song. Through the practices of one’s own identity, people recognise one’s culture, said Ao who encouraged the students and officials to move forward by exploring culture and identity
He thanked the CSUS for organising the event and carnival among the communities, and wished the gathering to share the love and bring peace and unity.
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B.Yemlong Chaba, Advocate and Advisor CSU spoke on the Significance of naknyulum mentioning that the word naknyulum has two meanings ‘naknyu’ meaning mother of darkness and ‘lum’ means festival. Chaba mentioned three important days of festival first – Wenshi, second – Youjem, third – nakseng. “On this occasion the foot path and all the houses are decorated by placing leaves called ‘Ngounaam’ it is a must to plant this shrub in front of every house to ward off evil spirits. When the festival approaches everything should be prepared including firewood, water and basic necessities. It is a belief that nothing should be left undone in fear of bad luck,” said Chaba.
The festival is also known for sharing snacks and curry and does not encourage sharing raw or fresh meat for sharing with others. He encouraged the students to have more knowledge of the roots about their own culture and festival.
The programme was chaired by L.Chaba,GT (former vice President), invocation pronounced by M.Lemba, church secretary SBL, welcome note delivered by C Wongto chollen, Convenor Event Management Team (EMT), and short speeches delivered by President Ao Union Saksi, President Yimkhiung Union Saksi, President Sangtam Union Saksi, President Khiamniungan Union Saksi, and vote of thanks from Sanglekhumba, president of CSU, closing prayer from W.Thupong, Treasurer CSU
The celebration was followed by the Naknyulum feast, tug of war and opening of different stalls. The night carnival will continue till today.
