People of Khonoma celebrated the 81st Rüffüno Day at Terhotsiese, Khonoma Basa Village, under Kohima district on September 1.
Kohima, September 4 (MExN): The people of Khonoma celebrated the 81st Rüffüno Day at Terhotsiese, Khonoma Basa Village, under Kohima district on September 1. The annual event, organised under the aegis of the Khonoma Rüffüno Nagaland, saw participation from six different units of the community spread throughout the state, all gathering under the theme “Hie Hü Sei Tuolie” (Inspire Us Always).
Salhoutuonuo Kruse, Minister for Women Resource Development and Horticulture, Government of Nagaland, graced the occasion as the main speaker, stated a press release issued by Rokovisa Chase, President, Khonoma Rüffüno Nagaland.
In her address, Kruse spoke candidly about her unexpected journey into politics and expressed gratitude for the trust placed in her by the people of the 8th Western Angami Assembly Constituency and Nagaland. She reiterated her commitment “to bring all round development to the best of her abilities.”
“Development cannot be brought about in isolation,” she stated, urging the people to work together with the Government of Nagaland, under the leadership of Chief Minister Dr Neiphiu Rio “to make the dream of an all round developed Nagaland a reality.”
The Minister paid rich tributes to the bravery and resilience of the people of Khonoma, notably during the Anglo-Khonoma war of 1879-80. She highlighted how this “resistance against colonial power led to a renaissance in trade and outlook of the people.”
“Traders from Khonoma did business in places like Bombay, Cambay, Nepal, Bangladesh, Burma, Thailand, and even China,” she said noting that this travels and exposure profoundly influenced their “polity and views on governance.”
She also noted that two sons of Khonoma were among the signatories of the historic memorandum presented to the Simon Commission in 1929.
Drawing inspiration from the forefathers’ vision for a free Naga nation and spirit of “Ura Uvie” (Our land belongs to us), she called upon the community “to continue to do good for the unity and progress of the Naga people.”
The two-day celebrations, which included a youth camp with various competitive events, culminated in the awards ceremony. Nine individuals were honoured for exceptional achievements and excellence in their respective fields.
