Pungro, August 8 (MExN): Yimkhiung Tribal Council and Pungro-based NGOs organised the Metümnyo festival at Pungro town on August 8.
A press release issued by Joshua K, Secretary, Yimkhiung Youth Organization stated that Metümnyo is a solemn festival celebrated by the Yimkhiung Naga community in Nagaland. It is an old ritual, tradition and celebration of life and death; blending its kinds of religious and seasonal significance. Traditionally, the festive days are spread from August 4 to 8 every year. The main feast falls on August 8.
The word ‘Me’ means ‘Soul’, ‘Tüm’ means ‘Wrap’ and ‘Nyo’ means ‘Feast’. The term ‘Metümnyo’ is ‘Soul Wrapping Feast’, a solemn festival that welcomes the newborns and honoring the ones going by.
The Metümnyo festival celebration at Pungro town was chaired by Lendila, Vice President, Yimkhiung Liberü Arihako (YBA), welcome address was pronounced by President of GBs Union Pungro subdivision. Former President of Yimkhiung Tribal Council, Thsesong shared the significant of the Metümnyo festival while EAC Pungro Yitachu Thurr (NCS) also shared the Metümnyo greeting.
Shamator: Yimkhiung community celebrated the Metümnyo festival at the public ground in Shamator Town. The event was hosted by BeriJanger and T Hantsula. Rev. Thsankiu, pastor of STBC, invoked the presence of God.
The significance of the festival was highlighted by SC Akhang, Head GB Shamator, who explained that it marks the first harvest of the millet crop and holds cultural and spiritual importance.
Throngso, YTC President and Apong Janger, President YYO delivered exhortations, emphasising the festival’s role in fostering unity and amity.
Chingyak Konyak, DC Shamator graced the event as the special guest. He echoed the sentiment that festivals are integral to Naga identity, and underscored the Nagaland government’s efforts to promote indigenous festivals.
The celebration included cultural dances by Mongtsumong Cultural Troupe and Lunkheberu Cultural Troupe.
