Cultural troupes from 19 villages across three districts of Nagaland joined this year’s Moatsü celebrations in Chuchuyimlang, where the ancient Ancha tradition of inviting neighbouring tribes to the harvest festival took centre stage.
Morung Express News
Chuchuyimlang | May 1
The Ancha tradition, an age-old practice of inviting neighbouring tribes to participate in the harvest festival, took centre stage at this year’s Moatsü celebrations in Chuchuyimlang, drawing cultural troupes from 19 villages across three districts of Nagaland.
Observed annually after the completion of the sowing season, Moatsü is a festival of thanksgiving among the Ao Nagas. At Chuchuyimlang, the celebration is distinguished by the Ancha tradition, which traces its origins to the village's historical role in peace building among communities during the “headhunting” era. It continues to function as a platform for renewing ties across tribes.
The festival, held at Anu Mai Amphitheatre on May 1, saw participation from villages across Longleng, Mon and Tuensang districts, with troupes representing the Phom, Chang and Ao communities.
Chuchuyimlang Village Council Chairman Ao Sanen Pongen said Moatsü has been celebrated in the village since its establishment in 1620 and remains the premier festival of the Ao Nagas. He noted that Chuchuyimlang was designated the state's “Moatsü Destination” in 2000.
“The defining feature of the celebration in Chuchuyimlang remains the Ancha tradition, an age-old practice of inviting neighbouring tribes to participate in the festival,” Pongen said, describing it as a living platform for renewing inter-tribal ties.
Nagaland Deputy Chief Minister Yanthungo Patton attended as guest of honour, while Abu Metha, Advisor to the Chief Minister of Nagaland was special guest.
Addressing the gathering, Metha highlighted the contributions of the Ao community in the political and social development of Nagaland, situating them within the broader Naga historical journey. He referred to prominent figures across generations and said their legacy continues to shape the state.
He also linked the question of cultural identity with present challenges, cautioning that divisions within Naga society would weaken collective progress. Stressing the need for unity across institutions and communities, he called for enabling younger generations to reach their full potential through a stable and cohesive society.
The programme included a series of cultural showcases by Pongching Cultural Troupe (Phom), Yaongyimsen Watsü Telen (Ao), Unger Cultural Troupe (Ao), and Chakpa Cultural Troupe (Chang), along with other performances such as “Under the Open Sky.” A segment on the “Spirit of Moatsü,” Moatsü greetings, and a presentation on “Celebrating the Timeless Essence of Moatsü” by Nuklutoshi Longkumer, MLA, were also part of the programme.
Community activities, including a Moatsü tug-of-war between Chuchuyimlang groups based in Dimapur and Kohima and a community fest were included as part of the celebration.
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