KOHIMA, NOVEMBER 22 (MExN): Rengma Public Organisation Kohima (RPOK) celebrated the "Nthenyi Atun Tsanthang/Pviibon Liiron Dzon" (Rengma Indigenous Day) as a prelude to Ngada Mini-Hornbill Festival 2018 on November 21.
The festival was observed to display the rich cultural heritage of the Rengma Nagas through Rengma folk-song competition and exhibition of traditional dresses and attires at Highland Park, Kohima.
President, RPOK, Khinyi Woch in his keynote address shared the significance of unique culture and traditions of the Rengma tribe and also expressed that the event was aimed at creating awareness and promoting our rich cultural heritage, especially aimed at educating the coming generations, the future of the Rengmas who will have to carry forward the Rengma identity.
The Chief Host, R Khing, Advisor, AH & VS and Women Resources Development, Govt. of Nagaland, while reminiscing about the early days of Rengma settlement in Kohima town, expressed gratitude to God for the ever growing numbers and blessings to the community.
The advisor highlighted the significance of Ngada festival as being the biggest festival of the Rengmas and a time of merry-making, giving and reconciliation.
He also stressed and encouraged the gathering to preserve the rich cultural heritage of the tribe passed down by the forefathers while also encouraging the gathering on the power of unity and to inculcate fear of the Lord and faithful living.
He later invited the gathering to join the whole community in celebrating the Ngada mini-Hornbill festival 2018 in oneness from November 27 and 28 at Tseminyu Old Town.
Rengma clothes and attires coordinated by Sophia Thong and Grace Mesen were also displayed. In the Rengma folk-tune competition participated by all the 7(seven) ranges, Tesophenyu Group emerged as winners and Kasha Daho group as runners up.
Earlier, Shihato Kath invoked God’s blessing, Dr. Gwalozu Thong (Advisor, RPOK) welcomed the gathering to the event. Rengma Baptist Church Youth Department presented a modern folk song.
Joint Secretary RPOK, Kenny Khing delivered the vote of thanks RPOK President Khinyi Woch and General Secretary Kenny Semp.
