DIMAPUR, MAY 2 (MExN): Dimapur Asangma Senso Telongjem (DAST) celebrated Moatsü – a traditional annual sowing festival of the Ao – on May 2. The celebration was hosted by the DAST at Senden Reju, Purana Bazaar with the editor of the Ao vernacular daily, Tir Yimyim, K. Temjen Jamir in attendance as a special guest.
Jamir in his address dwelled on the importance of community and fraternal spirit for the betterment of the Naga society as a whole. Referring to Dimapur in particular, Jamir said that the spirit of fraternity will come only when people, irrespective of cultural diversity, leave aside individual interests and collectively invest for the good of all, Jamir said.
Towards that end, he said that the authority to change for the better is in the hands of all, while adding that power alone is not enough. Unrestrained power, he said can have a corrupting influence as it can be gained through illicit means. But authority comes through the will to sacrifice and that authority will come when people are driven by an unflinching desire to bring positive change in the society, he said.
Other highlights of the day’s festivity included Dimapur Asangmatsur Telongjem and Dimapur Asangma Sobaliba Luden livening up the proceeding by presenting folk tunes and dances.
I. Nukrang Jamir spoke on the significance of Moatsü. Other guests, who spoke, included the president of the Ao Senso Telongjem Dimapur, Supu Jamir; village council chairman of Asangma, R. Wati Imsong; M. Imti Jamir of Kangtsung; and representatives from Dimapur Langpangkong Senso Telongjem and Dimapur Kilengmen Senso Telongjem.
