Members of the Sümi Hoho and Meluri Town Sümi Community pose for a photo during the Tuluni festival celebration held at Sümi Baptist Church, Meluri Town on July 8. (Photo Courtesy: Media Cell, Sümi Hoho)
Meluri, July 9 (MExN): The Meluri Town Sümi Community was formally inducted as a sub-unit of the Sümi Hoho during the Tuluni festival celebration organised by the community at Sümi Baptist Church, Meluri Town, on July 8.
Sümi Hoho president Dr Vihuto Asumi, who attended the event as the special guest, unveiled the plaque of induction, officially welcoming the Meluri Town Sümi Community into the apex tribal body.
Addressing the gathering, Asumi described Tuluni as a festival of abundance and thanksgiving for a bountiful agricultural season. He said the festival symbolises feasting and hospitality, bringing together families, relatives and friends to celebrate the blessings of life.
He said Tuluni also represents reconciliation and peacemaking, strengthens social bonds, particularly among betrothed couples, and showcases the rich cultural heritage of the Sümi people through traditional songs, dances and community celebrations.
Asumi said the Sümi community has established its presence across Nagaland, placing it in a unique position to foster peace, unity and harmonious relations with all tribes and communities.
Emphasising the importance of cordial inter-tribal relations, he expressed happiness over the reaffirmation and strengthening of the longstanding relationship between the Sümi and Pochury communities.
Calling on the gathering to uphold integrity in all spheres of life, he quoted author C.S. Lewis as saying, "Integrity is doing the right thing, even when no one is watching," and urged people to follow the principle in their personal lives and public service.
The celebration concluded in an atmosphere of unity, friendship and cultural harmony, reflecting the enduring goodwill and mutual respect shared between the Sümi and Pochury communities, the organisers said.
Deputy Commissioner of Meluri Phuleshe Yeptho and Pochury Hoho president Chonpa Jurry also addressed the programme.
Leaders of the Pochury Hoho, the chairman of the Meluri Town Council, representatives of various organisations and a cultural troupe from Meluri village were among those present.
