Traditional Hooting competition at the Chüthuni celebration at Tadubi, Senapati on January 7. (Photo Courtesy: A Teresa Obou)
Morung Express News
Dimapur | January 7
The Ememei (Mao) community celebrated ‘Chiithuni’ at Tadubi in Senapati District on January 7. The community celebration was organized under the aegis of the Mao Council, the apex peoples’ organization of the Ememei community.
Chiithuni is one of the most important festivals of the Mao community. The Chiithuni celebration signifies thanksgiving for the successful preceding year and invokes for a good new year.
As is the tradition there was no common mess, everyone who came for the celebration brought their own ‘tola/khala’ (tiffin/lunch) which was shared among the participants.
Speaking on the occasion, Peter Khrasi, President Mao Council emphasized on the need “to find our way back to our root”. He stated that “even birds and animals follow the ways and path of those who came before them but we seem to be forgetting the ways and path of our ancestors.” It is time we realize this and get back to our roots. He also spoke on the need to come together as a community and help build the same.
L. Dikho, Minister PHED, Government of Manipur while exhorting the gathering stressed on the importance of traditional culture and values. He urged the Mao community to find common grounds to work together for a better and shared future.
The celebration was marked “Movu kocho” (traditional hooting) competition between different villages. Best traditionally attired and Clean Mao Green award were also given at the celebration.
