Members of the Sumi community on Thursday celebrated “Ahuna”, a post-harvest festival, across the inhabited areas in Nagaland and beyond with traditional fervour.
According to a DIPR report, ‘Ahuna” festival was celebrated at Zunheboto district headquarters, organised by Sumi Hoho at DSCZ ground, with “a spirit of oneness, exuberant exhibition of rich cultural heritage and fusion of modern entities”.
Advisor for food & civil supplies and legal metrology, K Tokugha Sukhalu, who graced the celebration as “Ahuna Papu”, emphasised on the importance of valuing one’s traditions, customs, and cultural practices handed down by the forefathers.
He reminded that Zunheboto, located at the centre of Nagaland, was one of the oldest districts in the state, blessed with a rich history that should be honoured and maintained with respect and dignity by the present generation and carried on to the future generations.
Further, stressing on the evolving nature of traditions and cultural practices, Sukhalu acknowledged that while some customs could change with time, the core values such as honesty, hard work, generosity, courage and community must remain primary to the Sumi identity.
He also pointed out that traditions did not necessarily conflict with economic progress.
Sukhaku urged the community to be cautious of misleading information in today’s digital age, emphasizing the importance of unity and shared goals for the survival and growth of the Sumi people.
Reflecting on how Nagaland has changed over the years, he highlighted the growing competitions for jobs, the need for higher qualifications, and the necessity for hard work and dedication in today’s world.
Advisor cautioned that relying on shortcuts, like backdoor opportunities, would only leave the community lagging behind in a rapidly evolving society. He, therefore, exhorted the younger generation to focus on education, as it remains the key to the community’s future progress.
On the occasion, Sukhaklu also urged the Sumi community to reflect on the true meaning of the festivals, especially Ahuna and Tuluni, which are celebrations of agricultural labour.
He reiterated that those festivals were not just about the harvest, but about honouring the dignity of labour and coming together as a community to celebrate prosperity with unity.
Earlier at the programme, former president of Sumi Hoho, Dr. H.S. Rotokha highlighted the historical and ritualistic significance of the Ahuna festival.
Highlights of the celebration included a series of enthralling performances including special presentations by students from Immanuel Higher Secondary School and Cornerstone Higher Secondary School, Sumi war dance by Bloomfield Higher Secondary School, followed by a Tishole by students of Olympic Higher Secondary School.
Later, the cultural festivities were complemented by series of traditional competitions, including spear kicking and rhythmic jumping, showcasing the physical prowess and agility of the participants.
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