Spring Dale School, Wokha conducted its Cultural Day and Day of Gratitude with Solan Humtsoe, former Lotha Hoho cultural secretary and retired DIS as the theme speaker on Saturday at the school campus as part of the Tokhu Emong Festival.

The school informed that the program was conducted in order to educate students about the rich traditions and customs the community holds.

The theme speaker emphasised on the significance of embracing one’s native language. Humtsoe encouraged the students to confidently use the local dialect when communicating with a fellow Lotha, pointing out that teenagers often feel self-conscious about speaking their vernacular language. Additionally, the speaker taught the students traditional greetings and how to address elders and relatives, as many teenagers may not be familiar with proper formal etiquette.

Speaking about the importance of local attire, Humtsoe explained the meanings of different shawls and who is entitled to wear them. Further, the speaker also discussed how forefathers used to name children based on their life situations and circumstances.

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While discussing these topics, the speaker reminded students and teachers of Spring Dale School of a common mistake made when presenting a spear, emphasizing the tradition of carrying it in the right hand, as per the customs of the forefathers. In conclusion, the speaker urged everyone present to preserve and respect their culture and traditions.

The event followed with cultural presentations from students from all classes where folkdance, folksongs, weaving, knitting and indigenous games and sports were also witnessed.

The program was chaired by Pinky Humtsoe and Martha Kikon while Rev Achumo Kithan delivered the invocation and the welcome address was delivered by Tek Bahadur, Headmaster, Spring Dale School, Tek Bahadur and the benediction was pronounced by Proprietor of the School Abeni.