Rengma heritage village ‘Khwenphen’ inaugurated

April 14, 2025 7 Views No Comment

Tseminyu, April 14 (MExN): Khwenphen village was officially inaugurated as the Rengma Heritage Village on April 12. The inauguration, organized by the Kasha Lorin Village Union (KLVU), was held at the historic site located approximately 10 km from the district headquarters, Tseminyu.

The event marked a significant step in the community’s efforts to preserve and promote the cultural heritage of the Rengma people. Over the years, the KLVU—which comprises the villages of Kashanyu, Phenwhenyu, Kashanyishin, and Gujü—has taken the initiative to develop and safeguard Khwenphen as a symbol of ancestral unity and identity. The site holds significance not only for the Rengma but also for other communities such as the Sumi and Lotha, some of whom are believed to have migrated from Khwenphen.

Er. Tesinlosemy, President of Rengma Hoho, graced the event as guest of honour. In his address, he stressed the importance of unity and mutual respect within the Rengma community. “The foundation stone laid today as an act of inauguration should remind us of the love of God,” he said, recalling the community’s Mongolian roots and the migratory journey that led their ancestors to settle at Khwenphen. He urged the gathering to uphold the values of honesty, discipline, and integrity inherited from their forebears.

Speaking on contemporary issues, he highlighted the current reservation policy in Nagaland, stating that five tribes, including the Rengmas, have been deprived of their rightful share in employment. “There should be a proper streamline of the reservation policy for equality in employment,” he emphasized.

The program was chaired by Gwakenye Tep, General Secretary of KLVU, with an invocation prayer offered by John Seb, Senior Pastor of Kashanyishin Baptist Church. KLVU President Kenichwe Tep, in his presidential address, elaborated on the historical and cultural importance of the heritage site.

Greetings were also extended by Sehilo Thyü, President of Terogvunyu Chüpwe, and Kenyuseng Tep, President of the Tseminyu Union, who called for greater community collaboration.

The inauguration ceremony featured a folk dance by the Phenwhenyu Gujü Youth Organization and special musical performances by Ahile Seb and Kenneth Seb. A historical overview of Khwenphen was delivered by Er. Kegwachu Tep, a member of the history committee.

Community leaders including the President of the Rengma GB Association, Chairman Forum, and Presidents of the Rengma Mother’s Association and Rengma Selo Zi delivered short speeches.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Asinlo Semy, Vice President of KLVU, and a communal prayer for the feast led by pastors from all KLVU-affiliated villages.