The second day of the Tokhu Emong cum Mini Hornbill Festival 2024 in Wokha saw various Indigenous Games such as tug of war, spear throw, grease bamboo climbing and Naga wrestling on 5th November 2024 at the Public Ground in Wokha. Renbomo Ezung, (NCS) Additional Deputy Commissioner, Wokha, graced the event as the special Guest.

In his address, Ezung highlighted the importance of unity and the preservation of indigenous cultural practices. He lamented the growing neglect of traditional games, noting that these games were an essential part of the community’s identity and cultural heritage. “We are forgetting the importance of our traditional indigenous games, and they are losing relevance. We must revive and protect our traditions,” he stated.

Reflecting on his own childhood, Ezung recalled how traditional games were taught by parents, and how they helped instil a sense of identity. “Our identity is defined by our culture and tradition. If we lose these, we lose ourselves,” he said. He also emphasised the health benefits of these games, encouraging the youth to take part in them as a way to both learn and preserve their culture.

Ezung urged the Lotha Hoho to continue organising indigenous games and sports competitions, believing this would not only help revive traditions but also bring tangible benefits to the youth and the wider community.

The event was chaired by Yihamo Patton, Cultural Secretary of the Lotha Hoho, with the invocation offered by Rev. Lijamo Kikon, Pastor of the A.G. Church Wokha. The Wokha Village Female Cultural Troupe also presented a special song during the celebration.