Chuchuyimlang to host Moatsü Festival on May 1

Morung Express News
Chuchuyimlang | April 26

Chuchuyimlang village in Nagaland’s Mokokchung district will host the Moatsü Festival 2026 on May 1 at the Anu Mai Amphitheatre, continuing its tradition of inter-tribal celebration.

Deputy Chief Minister Yanthungo Patton will attend as the guest of honour, while Advisor to the Chief Minister Abu Metha will be the special guest. The event is being organised by the Chuchuyimlang Village Council in collaboration with the village tourism committee.

Addressing media persons, Village Council chairman Ao Sanen Pongen said the village has upheld the Moatsü celebration since its inception, with its present structured format evolving over time. He highlighted the unique ‘Ancha’ tradition, under which neighbouring villages and tribes are invited to participate.

He said the practice originated from efforts to foster peace among communities during the headhunting era and continues to strengthen inter-tribal bonds.

In recognition of this tradition, the Nagaland Tourism Department declared Chuchuyimlang as the state’s “Moatsü Destination” in 2000. However, Pongen said the village has not received financial assistance for organising the festival and largely depends on community contributions.

He also noted that Chuchuyimlang played a key role in sustaining the festival when its observance had declined in other parts of Mokokchung district.

For this year’s celebration, cultural troupes from the Phom and Chang communities will participate under the Ancha tradition, along with engagement from other tribes such as Konyak and Sangtam.

Moatsü, a major festival of the Ao Naga community observed after sowing, is marked by folk songs, dances, feasting and community bonding. At Chuchuyimlang, the festival emphasises unity and renewal of relationships.

The evening programme will feature the third edition of the Moatsü Mung Concert at the amphitheatre, organised by the Ashipo Society, with performances by artists including Keneisenuo Sorhie and Aseno Metha.

Organisers have extended an open invitation to the public, describing the festival as a celebration of unity, blessings and thanksgiving.