Zacilhü R Vadeo Advisor, Chakhesang Cultural Organisation, Phek I bring bountiful greetings to each and every Chokupu (Chakhesang) home and Naga brethren on the auspicious occasion of Khilünye-cum-Fhünye being celebrated on 15th November, 2018. Khilünye (Festival of partaking the first and fresh crops from barns)-cum-Fhünye (Fish festival) are celebrated right after paddy harvest in the month of Nguha (November). Initially Khilünye and Fhünye are practised by the Chokri sect of Phek District since the ancient time. In present days, the 15th November is set for its celebration for the convenience and common interest of all concerned. The Church leaders are expected to organize thanksgiving programmes/prayers on this occasion for His generosity and bountifulness. Khilünye and Fhünye are unique and rare occasions. It is rare because hardly any other society celebrate Khilünye and Fhünye. Traditionally, fish is believed to signify money and wealth. Fish is regarded to be clean and holy as it lives in water. It is also believed that water signifies richness. Thus, partaking fish with the first grain of the new harvest is believed to bring/beget good fortunes. Generally and traditionally, the Chakhesang practise terrace cultivation-cum-pessi-culture. Every household rears mostly mud fish in the wet paddy fields. The pessi-cultural practice ensures and endures the practice of Fhünye since the olden days. Every household equally participates in the celebration with reared/unreared fishes. People exchange their curry and Shedzü (grain-brewed juice/wine) with friends, near and dear ones, and also offer them to the old and needy people. I salute those pioneer villages which steadfastly carried on such unique traditions till date. Dear Nagas, let us never forget that culture and tradition are the integral parts of a society’s richness and pride. It retains and endures our identity and originality. On celebration of Khilünye-cum-Fhünye, may God richly bless every home bountiful returns. GOD YEHOVAH PROVIDES!
