Bamboo dance by Konyak women on the occasion of Aoleang Monyu in Kisama on April 4. (Morung Photo)
Kohima, April 4 (MExN): Konyaks living in Kohima today gathered at the Naga Heritage Village, Kisama to celebrate the presence of Wangwan, the divine Spirit of blessing on the fourth day of the six-day long Aoleang Monyu Festival. The fourth day of the festival also called Lingnyu Nyih, is the day, where men and women wear beautiful ornaments and spend the whole day in community feasts, amusements, dances and merry-making.
Greeting the Konyak community on the occasion, Alemtemshi Jamir, Chief Secretary of Nagaland, who was the chief guest for the celebration expressed his gladness in being part of the festival and expressed his appreciation to the community for preserving their culture and way of life. Saying that he was always amazed by the authenticity, the artistry, the variety and the creativity of the Konyaks, he added, “may God bless the tribe with knowledge, wisdom and health in leading the people of Nagaland to a brighter future in the days to come.”
Remarking of how unfortunate the people of Mon had been after being left out of the British administration during the British rule in India and how the Christian Missionaries had to leave the district due to health conditions twenty years before E.W. Clark first came to Nagaland, Jamir called upon the community to leave aside the misfortune and work for a brighter future. Stressing on the importance of keep their cultures alive, and the need for communities to be open to change, he encouraged them by saying, “with about 2,59,000 members, the Konyak tribe is the single largest tribe in Nagaland. We need to avail opportunities by knowing our strengths and using them to overcome our weaknesses.” Jamir stressed on the need for the community to change by building positivity and looking forward to lead other tribes in the future years.
H. Moba, Pastor, Konyak Baptist Church, Kohima pronounced the invocation, while Longang, President Konyak Union, Kohima delivered the Welcome address. W. Honje, DC Kohima talked on the significance of Aoleang Monyu. The program witnessed both young and old presenting songs and dances. Dr. Phola, Principal SIRD delivered the vote of thanks. The Community Feast was hosted by C.L. John, Parliamentary Secretary RD, RE & PA.
