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Walford Area Sumi Community with guests after the celebration on November 14. (Photo Courtesy: WASC)
Dimapur, November 16 (MExN): Ecclesia Theological College & Seminary (formerly called Withee Bible College) observed Ahuna festival on November 14 at the College campus, Darogajan Dimapur.
The programme was moderated by Alokali Zhimomi, Lecturer who highlighted the significance of Ahuna and invited the congregation to worship God by performing and witnessing various activities.
L Edward Lotha, Rtd Director, Higher Education, Nagaland was the guest of honour. The programme was graced with prayer by Iboli, Lecturer followed by introduction and presentation by Rev Dr Vikheshe Chishi, Founder & Principal.
The event was marked with various cultural shows by the students, such as: traditional attire show of the 16 tribes, display of head hunting, climbing oil polished bamboo, war dance, thigha le, spinning song etc. Guest of honor in his speech pointed out the social evils that prevail in our society such as corruption, tribalism and political issues. He further encouraged the ETC&S family to continue with the spirit of solidarity and oneness. Vote of thanks was given by Nyanbeni Assistant GS and finally benediction was pronounced by Academic Dean, Ekonthung Lotha.
Walford Area Sumi Community (WASC) celebrated its 3rd Ahuna festival at fellowship compound, DSBC Walford. Tovihoto Aye, Advisor Power, Government of Nagaland graced the occasion as 'Ahuna Papu.' In his message, Aye spoke on the importance of preserving the culture and traditions with values.
WASC Chairman, Manaho K Katty in a press release stated Aye further talked about the origin and significance of Ahuna, which is a post harvest Festival of the Sumi community.
He also encouraged the gathering to maintain peace and harmony and to love one another, while urging to give thanks to “our almighty for the bountiful blessings” and also encouraged to invoke God's blessings even for the coming year.
Various cultural activities such as 'shikipili le,' 'Hevu-vu,' 'Ghile kuhu,' 'Ahuna kibe,' 'Athu kuchu' and 'Akighi Sunhe kuxu' depicting the forefathers’ rituals and practices were performed by elders and womenfolk.
Dignitaries such as GBs, council chairman from various tribes attended the festival. The programme was chaired by Abel Tsuqu and Hokito Swu, while Associate Pastor DSBC invoked God’s blessing. Manaho Katty, Chairman, WASC delivered the welcome address. S Zhevihe Sumi delivered the vote of thanks and benediction was pronounced by Bokato Yeptho, followed by Ahuna feast.
