Chizokho Vero
Benreu | October 31
People in traditional dresses and fineries today gathered here at the picturesque Benreu village under Peren district for a commemorative celebration of 50th year of declaring “Lamsimngyi” as a Zeliang restricted holiday.
Lamsimngyi is one of the most popular Zeliang festivals, which is celebrated with much pomp and gaiety, usually during the last part of October or early November.
Lamsimngyi was declared as a Zeliang restricted holiday by SC Dev, the then Deputy Commissioner of Kohima, while gracing the festival as the chief guest at Benreu village on 31st October 1966, said the celebration committee secretary Heirang Lungalang.
In today’s programme organized by Benreului Baudi, the people enthusiastically participated in ululate, leaping, long and high jump, shot put and wrestling.
Lamsimngyi or Kwapwangyi is a festival of rekindling of the loving relationship between parents and married daughters/sons families; between families of sisters and brothers; and between family of married niece and the chosen maternal uncle’s family; and competition in games and sports for boys and youth.
On the first day, they cook the best delicacies and share it with each others’ families called Kwakpwa & Hetamram.
In some villages, the day belongs to the brides, who gather and spend and enjoy the day for the last time before finally turning into a woman. Also, the womenfolk, according to their age groups, gathers in groups and enjoy the day in each other’s company, while the menfolk look after the household chores and take care of the children.
The second day belongs to the young boys and men, who compete in various games and sports. In run up to the games and sports competition, young boys and men of different clans form groups and take turns to feed each other with fresh meat and practice in the games and sports for this day.
All households maintain abstinence, so that no injury or harm befalls anyone while they compete on the day of Lamsim. Women and girls stay indoor, observing the hour for good luck to the male members from their family so that they bring laurels to the family/clan.
However, if a death has taken place during the year or a domestic animal had given birth the previous night; boys or men of that household do not take part in the competitions, and even avoid mingling with the others, till the competitions are over.
The competitions start with ululating by the whole menfolk of the village. After that, young boys & men plough the jumping pit, then start the long jump (Hezwa) competition. When the winner is declared, the youth compete in the leaping (Nsau); then high jump (Heram); then shot put (Chugi).
Finally, everyone settles down to watch the wrestling competition. The champions in the different disciplines are looked upon with respect by the people, as they are considered as persons capable of guarding the village as good and abled brave warriors.
Today’s celebration was also marked by Lamsimngyi feast and a musical extravaganza. November 1 event will feature trekking to Paunalwa.
