Ao Naga community across Nagaland celebrated the vibrant Moatsu festival, from May 1 to 3, by organising traditional rituals, cultural performances, and calls for greater political unity and sustainable practices.
In Chungtia village, Mokokchung, the Moatsu festival was organized by the Chungtia Village Council and graced by minister of Rural Development & SIRD, Metsubo Jamir as the guest of honor. He highlighted his personal ties to the village and urged for stronger community bonds and harmony.
Metsubo also explained that Moatsu, which is traditionally celebrated after sowing crops, the modern focus should shift toward seeking blessings for future generations. He pledged continued support for the development and welfare of the community.
The celebrations featured folk songs and dance performances by various village groups, preceded by speeches from local leaders, including Benei M. Lamthiu MLA and Chungtia Village Council chairman Assamwati Longchar.
Meanwhile, in Aoyim Village, Chümoukedima, the festival was hosted Aoyim Lanur Telongjem (ALT). In his address, chief guest Temsu Sanglir stressed the importance of cultural continuity amid modern challenges and encouraged the community to embrace growth while preserving its heritage.
A key highlight of the event was I. Nukrang Jamir’s special address on “Moatsu Ratet,” in which he reminded the gathering of the festival’s deep-rooted significance. He emphasized that Moatsu is not merely a celebration of the sowing season’s end, but also a time for reflection, reconciliation, and reaffirmation of community bonds.
The festival in Aoyim Village featured traditional Ao dances, indigenous games, and cultural performances, celebrating the richness of Ao heritage and reinforcing the community’s collective spirit.