The Khaozaosie-Hok-Ah celebration of the Khiamniungan tribe began on Thursday at Public Ground at Noklak. Under the pleasant blue sky, the gathering witnessed thrilling talents and activities showcased by skilful artisans, craftsmen and women from all corners of the district, echoing melodies of cultural songs and dances which unleashed festive spirit.
Special Guest, MLA Benei M Lamthiu was received by the Lengnyu Village Cultural Troupe on his arrival at the venue. He then hoisted the Khiamniungan Tribal Council Flag.
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Addressing the gathering, Lamthiu informed that the Khaozaosie-Hok-Ah is the main festival of Khiamniungan tribe recognised by the Government of Nagaland. He said that the festival not only represents ethnicity but is renowned for preserving unity and embodies the spirit of peace among the community.
The MLA also paid gratitude Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio and his government for supporting and sponsoring the festival. He lauded the CM’s keenness to promote the culture of all the seventeen tribes of Nagas to the whole world. Highlighting that with the support of tribal bodies, Mini Hornbill festivals are being held in every district, Lamthiu said that he is glad that it is also happening in the land of Khiamniungan with the blessings of State government.
The MLA hoped that the festival expresses the community’s confidence with collective strength to promote good ties with neighbouring community. The MLA called for ‘Peace and Unity’ and ‘Truth’ in the land and strongly urged to weed out feeling of jealousy, ‘ism’ and self-invested interest for prosperity’s sake.
Lamthiu also urged the younger generation to preserve the rich cultures and traditions passed down by their forefathers to which he also lamented that modernization has led the youngsters to forget their roots.
Further, the MLA wished that the celebration of Khaozaosie-Hok-Ah advocates peaceful coexistence and strength so that the community can proudly face the world as sons of rich soil of the Khiamniungan.
Later, Lamthiu also inaugurated the handicraft stalls and the Indigenous Craft Competition. The Mini Hornbill Festival is also providing platforms for local entrepreneurs to showcase their crafts and talents and at the same time boost their business.
During the inaugural program, Vikhoto Richa, SDO (C) Noklak congratulated the people of Noklak and the Nagaland Tourism Department, for organising the festival which he said is a testament to the spirit of resilience and endurance. Noklak is a young district with countless challenges, Richa said and urged the community to have the spirit of resilience to overcome adversaries.
The grant celebration of Khaozaosie-Hok-Ah Mini Hornbill Festival 2024 witnessed competitions such as ‘Egg Coop’, Spoon Making by men and making of Elon-Nyu fibre (stinging needle plant), making of cotton fibre and necklace making by women. In each competition, the competitors amazed the spectators with their effortless skills completing the items in matter of seconds.
Other activities included Elon-Nyu fibre demonstration by Paosubo Khepkou, Cotton fibre demonstration by Tson SHG, Blacksmith Demonstration by Langnok village.
Cultural Troupes from Lengnyu Village and Noklak Town Women Cultural Group showcased a cultural songs and dances.
Earlier, the program was chaired by P. Khumo, Invocation was pronounced by Samuel, Finance & Development, KBCA, Welcome note by Heno, advisor KTC, special number by Jamin and Pukei.
