Konyak community called to uphold its unique identity

Our Correspondent
Kohima | April 2

The Konyak community of Nagaland state capital Kohima celebrated Konyak’s premier festival- Aoleang at Naga Heritage Village, Kisama with much pomp and traditional gaiety on April 2. The festival was celebrated under the aegis of Konyak Union Kohima (KUK).

Gracing the occasion as the special guest, Nagaland Prisons and Printings & Stationary Advisor H Haiying called upon Konyak community to live up to the spirit of Aoleang festival which signifies the unique identity, strength and blessings. He urged the Konyak community to be truthful and faithful in their approaches and always do the right things. He also called upon them to build trust and stay strong.

“Be hard working man and woman,” he said at the same time urged upon them to be sincere and dedicated to their works to march forward as a progressive human being.

Haiying also called upon the people to reason together and forgive and forget the past mistakes and renew their relationship for a progressive and conducive society. “This festival call for love and understanding,” the advisor said and stressed on the need to maintain peace and unity to receive Aoleang blessings.

Further, he expressed happiness to KUK for exercising sensible decision and protecting the community. Extending best wishes to KUK in all its endeavours, Haiying urged upon them to continue to work for the welfare and common cause of the community.

Sharing greetings, Angami Students’ Union (ASU) President, Bisevi Nakhro said that ASU is honour and privilege to be a part of the celebration. “We join you in welcoming the new season invoking the blessings of the divine as you start and take on the new season,” he said.

“We reaffirm our bond as brothers and members of the Naga family today. Brotherhood is a large concept. It entails uniting all amidst the diversity. It is about finding it in your heart to truly care about each other and build them up, while allowing them to lift you up too when you need it,” ASU president said. He also challenged the gathering to “reaffirm our commitment to this brotherhood and unite to build a stronger Naga society - a progressive society, supporting and encouraging each other to move forward.” May our unity and brotherhood continue to be our strength even in the days to come, he added.

Ex-MLA Naiba Konyak, National Executive member of ST Morcha BJP highlighted the significance of Aoleang. Aoleang is the premier festival of the Konyak Nagas. It is celebrated from April 1 to 6. Aoleang celebrations also mark the end of the current year and welcome the beginning of the New Year with the spring season. It is the time to pray for a bountiful harvest of crops. Each day of the festival has its own significance, custom rituals and merry making. It is a festival of sharing and forging ahead with renewed vigor into the coming year.

The celebration witnessed cultural performances from Sey-ong cultural troupe of Tobu Area Union Kohima. Cultural troupes from Wakching area, Mon Circle and Aboi area also performed at the festival. Angam & friends presented a special number. Earlier, welcome address was delivered by KUK President H Angnyei Konyak.

The festival concluded with Aoleang feast, hosted by Changlangshu-sa Kohima.