Dr SC Jamir addressing the Tsüngremmong Festival at the Kisama Amphitheatre, Kohima, on August 1. (DIPR Photo)
Kohima, August 1 (MExN): Kohima Aor Telongjem (KAT) celebrated the Tsüngremmong Festival at the Kisama Amphitheatre, Kohima, on August 1.
Padma Bhushan awardee, former Governor and Chief Minister Dr SC Jamir, in his address, described Tsüngremmong as a special festival that unites the Ao Naga community and urged the people to remain united, stated a DIPR report.
Nagaland is a land chosen by God and reflected on the unique spread of Christianity among the Nagas. Though the state is surrounded by regions of different faiths, it was through Dr. E. W. Clark that Christianity first reached the Aos, and from there, through Ao missionaries, spread to other Naga tribes,” he stated. “This is not a matter of pride but a reason to praise God,” he asserted.
In the present-day scenario, Dr Jamir expressed concern over the fragmentation of the Naga movement, widespread corruption, and lack of unity. He also called upon the Ao Naga community to elect honest leaders for the betterment of Nagaland.
Minister for Rural Development and SIRD, Metsubo Jamir, in his greetings, highlighted that the purpose of Tsüngremmong was not to seek blessings, but to offer heartfelt thanks and gratitude for the many blessings already bestowed upon the community. He remarked that those who give more praise receive more blessings, emphasising the power of gratitude in one’s life.
Jamir urged the youth to learn from the past and cultivate a spirit of hard work and resilience. He also stressed the significance of cultural identity, underlining the need to preserve and practice our mother tongue. He reminded everyone that language is the heart of culture, and nurturing it is key to keeping our heritage alive.
President Ao Senden, Marsanen Imsong also exhorted the gathering and Dobashi Mokokchung, Lanutemshi Longkumer briefed about the significance of the Tsüngremmong celebration and how it all originated.
The welcome address was presented by President, Kohima Aor Telongjem, T. Chubayanger, while the vote of thanks was proposed by Convenor, Kohima Aor Telongjem, Lepzung Pongen.
The celebration was marked with the presentation of folk dance, folk songs, traditional games performed by different unions under KAT and also witnessed a Tug of War between Ao Legislators & Senior Officers vs KAT Sanen Luden and a play performed by Dreams Unlimited.
The programme was compered by Narola Chuba, Vice Principal, Baptist College, Kohima and Bendangsashi Walling, Associate Pastor, KABA.
