Metümnyo, one of the most celebrated and cherished festivals of the Yimkhiung people is traditionally observed for five days from August 4 to 8, which is held post millet harvest. The festival was celebrated at RCEMPA, Jotsoma, Kohima organised by Yimkhiung Union Kohima on August 8.
Extending his greeting to the Yimkhiung people, Deputy Chief Minister, TR Zeliang expressed that any festival is more than occasions of celebration, they are the living expressions of our identity and our shared heritage. He highlighted that Metümnyo, celebrated after the millet harvest, is a beautiful reminder of the Yimkhiung people’s rich culture, resilience, and deep connection with nature.
He was also contented to note that the Yimkhiung tribe and the Zeliang Tribe have recently strengthened and celebrated the spirit of brotherhood between the communities stating that this was a significant milestone that deserves appreciation and such initiatives build trust and lasting bonds that benefit not only the two tribes but the entire Naga family.
He mentioned that Metümnyo is a festival of thanksgiving for a bountiful harvest but beyond the harvest from our fields. It also symbolizes the harvest of our lives, the joy and contentment that come from living in harmony with our families, neighbours, and communities.
He reminded that this festival should inspire everyone to sow the seeds of unity, kindness, hard work, and compassion, so that they may continue to reap rich harvests, not only in fields but also in homes, society, and relationships. “At a time when our Naga society is witnessing increasing fragmentation, festivals remind us of the importance of coming together. They remind us that our diversity should be our strength, not our weakness. It is therefore important that we strengthen the bonds between tribes and communities rather than allow differences to widen,” he said.
He also wished the people to celebrate with renewed determination to build bridges instead of barriers, and to work together for a peaceful, prosperous, and a united Nagaland.
Download Nagaland Tribune app on Google Play
In the programme Advisor, Kuzholuzo Nienu and President Angami Public Organisation, Thejao Vihienuo also greeted the Yimkhiung people and spoke on the occasion.
Metumnyo signifies ‘feast of spirit’. It is a time of thanksgiving, community renewal, farewell to the departed soul, and welcoming of new born babies. Throughout this time, the village joins hands to clean houses, repair local roads, and clear field footpaths using daos and spades to welcome forthcoming blessings. The entire observance culminates on the final day, Shiresük, which is dedicated exclusively to feasting on the fresh millet, inviting friends, exchanging gifts, drinking local brew, and enjoying traditional singing and dancing.
The ultimate significance of Metumnyo is forgiveness and open reconciliation where past mistakes are discussed and friendship is rebuilt.
Pungro:
Metümnyo was celebrated at Multipurpose Hall, Pungro Town on August 8, hosted by S Kiusumew Yimchunger, Advisor, Fire & Emergency Services, Home Guards & Civil Defense, Relief & Rehabilitation, and organized by Pungro Town Festival Committee.
In his address MLA, S Kiusumew Yimchunger urged the people to let this festival in its modern form reflecting the spirit of common brotherhood, unity, forgiveness giving the festival its true meaning.
The celebration began with Rev Fr Dr Vemedo Joseph, Parish priest, St Paul Parish Pungro invoking God’s blessings, followed by beautiful melody echoing the spirit of festival presented by Pungro Town GBs.
Short speeches were given by ADC Pungro, Hotolu Sema, NCS, SDPO Pungro, Y Ashito Aye and Makezho, Executive Chairman, YTC, each reflecting on the spirit of festival as a reminder for preserving cultural roots and bridging glorious past with a hopeful future indicating the resilient and heritage of the Yimkhiung people.
The origination of Metümnyo festival was narrated by Yansomong, Hd. GB, Pungro Town.
Vote of Thanks was given by Joshua K, secretary Festival Committee and ended with Pongthu Cultural Troupe, Pungro Town performing cultural dance, followed by festival feast at the MLA’s residence.
