The traditional Hornbill Stone Pulling Ceremony was held at Tuophema village by the villagers, in collaboration with the Department of Tourism on Friday.

Union Minister of Communications and DoNER, Jyotiraditya M Scindia participated in the traditional Naga stone-pulling ceremony at Tuophema Village as part of the Hornbill Festival, which was hosted by Chief Minister, Neiphiu Rio.

Dressed in traditional Angami attire, Scindia joined the community in the culturally revered act of stone pulling, witnessing firsthand the unity and collective strength that define the Angami way of life.

In his short speech, he said that it was a very important day for everyone, not only Tuophema and the people of Nagaland but a day of culture, emotion for all across the length and breadth of India.

He said that the stone pulling ceremony is not a mere task but embodies the combination of union of both body, mind, soul, heart and spirit and express that it was a day of honour and delight for him to be the part of the programme.

He said, “This tradition is not merely a display of physical strength but a living reminder of how heritage binds communities together. Standing here among the people of Tuophema, I felt the deep wisdom of a society that safeguards its roots while embracing progress.”

The programme commenced with an invocation by Dr Gelhou Seyie, Folk Dance was presented by Gilead students Touphema; Dzülhami cultural troupe; Tesophenyu Cultural troupe and Lazami Cultural troupe. Folk song greetings were presented by Zhadima Cultural troupe and Botsa Women group. The programme was compered by Khriemenuo Kense and Shürhozelie Seyie.

Earlier, a welcome address was delivered by Pfüduolhou Kense, Chairman of Touphema Village Council. A ritual blessing was offered by Kevikhe Serie, GB Touphema Village.