Dr Kekhrie Yhome, Advisor for School Education & SCERT
Zunheboto, December 5 (MExN): The first edition of ‘Hornbill Extension’ kicked off with a grand celebration at the District Sports Council Ground in Zunheboto on December 5. The three-day event, with the theme ‘Celebrating Nagaland's Rich Heritage’ was organised by the Sumi Youth Organization and witnessed a large gathering of locals and dignitaries.
Dr Kekhrie Yhome, Advisor for School Education & SCERT, Government of Nagaland was the inaugural guest, stated a press release received here.
In his address, Yhome highlighted the importance of preserving and celebrating the traditions, customs, and cultural practices of Nagaland. He emphasized that while the Hornbill Festival itself may not have been celebrated by the forefathers of the Naga tribes, it has grown into a unifying event that brings people together.
Yhome urged the people of Zunheboto to find a permanent venue for the festival, advocate for government support, and use the occasion to showcase the state’s rich cultural identity to the world.
He also mentioned that the Sumi people, as one of the major tribes in Nagaland, should be proud of their heritage and continue promoting unity among different tribes in the state. He further expressed optimism that education and religion would help uplift the people of Nagaland.
The event was chaired by Tavinto K Sumi, President of Green Club Zunheboto, with invocation by Ghunato Assumi, Associate Pastor of SBCZ. The welcoming speech was delivered by Vihoto Zhimo, Deputy Chairperson of Zunheboto Town Council. Akukau Hetoho S Zhimomi, President of Sumi Kukami Hoho also spoke in the programme.
Living Voice and Kihikali Zhimo performed special numbers and a brief description about Sumi Alokumusu Mqo by Kakugha S Rotokha, Advisor SAM with cultural exhibition where Lumuthsami performed a folk Dance, tug of war, Apu ki Ili Ki and Sumi Indigenous martial art sparring.
Minister for Higher Education and Tourism, Temjen Imna Along, former Minister Y Vikheho Swu, Additional Director of Tourism, T Kakihe Sumi, and others were also present during the event.
The festival will feature a variety of cultural and traditional exhibitions, including the Sumi Indigenous Martial Art Sparring (Apukhu Kiti) and a Tug of War competition. Additionally, attendees will be treated to performances by local artists, such as Mengu Suokhrie, Keneisenuo Sorhie, Nikato Tamang, Physco K4, and District Band Zunheboto. The evening events will be hosted by Miss Nagaland 2022, Hikali Achumi, and Global Model India, Tonoto Zhimomi.
