Khaozaosie Hok-Ah Festival reinforces Naga unity & heritage

January 23, 2025 17 Views No Comment

Morung Express News
Noklak | January 23

The Khaozaosie Hok-Ah, the Festival of Feast and Rest, along with the 4th edition of the Handicraft Festival, concluded on January 22 in Thonoknyu town. The event, which took place over two days, was marked by merrymaking, peace, and unity. The festival featured competitions showcasing various handicrafts, such as the best weaving and bamboo basket-making, encouraging youths to enhance their inherent skills and sustain their livelihoods.

The festival’s host for the day, MLA P Longon highlighted Nagaland’s rich cultural heritage, referring to it as the “Land of Festivals,” where a unique tribal festival is celebrated every month. The message underscored the distinct significance of each festival, passed down through generations and underscored the importance of remaining rooted in culture and tradition while embracing modernity. Young people were urged to stay connected to their heritage and actively participate in traditional festivals to keep their culture alive.

P Longon also emphasised about the significance of the festival, noting that it is deeply rooted in the cultures and traditions passed down from forefathers. He described Khaozaosie Hok-Ah as a celebration marking a year of hard work with a time for merrymaking and rest. Longon also explained that the festival symbolises forgiveness and reconciliation. He expressed his appreciation for the Yimkhiung Tribal Council’s presence, marking their friendship with the Khiamniungans, and urged the Khiamniungan community to co-operate with the Khiamniungan apex body. Additionally, Longon advised students to adopt a habit of hard work in order to excel in competitive exams, rather than relying on backward quotas.

A message from Deputy Chief Minister TR Zeliang which was read out by the festival’s host, encouraged everyone to celebrate the festival of feast and rest in its true spirit and acknowledged the role of Naga festivals in attracting tourism. He also highlighted the envisioned “Trans Eastern Highway” project from Mon to Kiphire, expressing optimism that it would improve road connectivity, including areas like Noklak. Regarding the Naga political issue, Zeliang reaffirmed that it remains a matter of concern for all Nagas and urged continued support for the efforts of the negotiating parties.

Throngso President of the Yimkhiung Tribal Council, highlighted about the importance of festivals in preserving culture and traditions. He praised the Khiamniungan community for upholding their culture without succumbing to Westernisation. With the resolution of the ENPO issue, Throngso urged the people of the Eastern region to maintain peace and work towards better growth and development. Regarding the land dispute that had arisen between the Khiamniungan and Tikhir tribes prior to the festival, he commended both communities for resolving the issue in a mature manner, in accordance with the ENPO resolution.

The formal programme began with a prayer led by Pastor Haimong Peshu of the Baptist Church, followed by a welcome address from Convenor Pukho. Melody performances by Mechie, a folk fusion presentation by Pathso village, gratitude expressed by Talamong, Executive Chairman of the Khiamniungan Tribal Council, and a benediction pronounced by Pastor Shingnyu Shiu of Thonoknyu Baptist Church marked the event.