Students of FAC Drama Club on stage at the Fazl Ali College auditorium on May 2.
Morung Express News
Mokokchung | May 2
The inaugural function of the two-day celebration of Moatsü, the major festival of the Ao Nagas, began on May 2 at Fazl Ali College (FAC) auditorium with Minister for Rural Development Metsubo Jamir as the guest of honour and Minister for Health and Family Welfare S Pangnyu Phom as the special guest.
Minister Metsubo, in his speech, said that it was an honour for him to be inaugurating a premier festival in an educational institution for the first time. He congratulated Ao Senden and FAC for having the wisdom to host the festival and also for being accreditated with grade A during the recent NAAC accreditation cycle.
Metsubo stressed on the importance of culture and tradition. He said that there is growth and progress in respecting our culture and tradition while also giving us our identity.
He also talked about how ‘our ancestors were hardworking people and how because of this culture there are no beggars in our land.’
He urged the people to celebrate the Moatsü festival in all its sanctity and to celebrate it by giving thanks to God and by renewing and rejuvenating one's spirit. He further encouraged everyone to embrace the motto of hard work and unity in this festive season.
Special guest Pangnyu Phom said that Moatsü festival is a festival celebrating our roots and a renewed friendship with affection and love among each other for a unified and prosperous society.
Pangnyu appreciated the efforts of the Aos for being the pioneer in all forms in the society and for being the angels of transformation for the Naga society.
He especially appreciated the Aos for their effort in educating the many Naga tribes. “The Ao Nagas have been instrumental in the progress and growth of the state by inspiring and bringing tremendous change in the state. The legacy imprinted by the Aos are worthy of mention,” he said.
He further questioned the Aos on whether they are carrying forward the spiritual lanterns and if they are in the forefront for a better Naga society like the forefathers did.
He concluded by saying that we have greater responsibilities than before and that we should not bad social elements conquer us. As Nagas we strongly adhere to our customary laws and tradition where men folk take major roles in all spheres but we need to change our perspective and give avenues to women folks too, he said.
While proposing the welcome address at the programme, Chubawati Longchar, President, Ao Senden, informed that Commerce Stream will be introduced in FAC at the earliest as promised by the Chief Minister of Nagaland. He also informed that an extension of 35 rooms within 45 days will be added to the Imkongliba Memorial District Hospital as promised by Minister S Pangnyu Phom.
Day one of the Moatsü festival also witnessed the inauguration of Museum and Art Gallery, crafts exhibition and stalls and flower show. Competitions like Ao spell Bee, Prepared speech in Ao, cultural cosplay for kids were also held. Other events like angling, Kid's Carnival, traditional games, traditional crafts exposition, science and exhibition & Tour and talent exposition were some other highlights of the festival.
