Lotha Naga men in traditional attire attend the the Tokhü Emong celebration at Public Ground, Wokha. (Morung Photo)
Morung Express News
Wokha | November 7
The Tokhü Emong Mini Hornbill Festival 2025 celebration at the Public Ground, Wokha culminated on Friday afternoon. Addressing the gathering, the special guest, Relo Aye, Superintendent of Police, Wokha reflected on the state of development in Nagaland, and expressed hope that a positive and lasting solution would come to Nagaland, stressing that such change would require both the public and authorities to work together with a positive attitude.
He pointed out that despite 60 years of statehood, Nagaland still faces a lack of development and called for the revival of the strong work culture established by the forefathers. “We must revive our culture of hard work; otherwise, festivals like Tokhü Emong will slowly lose their identity,” he said. Concluding his address, Aye urged everyone to celebrate the festival in a spirit of peace, unity, and renewed commitment to progress.
The programme was chaired by N Elis Jungio, Vice Chairman of the Lotha Hoho. The invocation was pronounced by Zubenthung Ngullie, Pastor of Police Baptist Church, Wokha. In his welcome address, the Chairperson extended gratitude to all individuals and organisations who contributed towards the successful celebration of the weeklong festival.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Thechamo Tsanglao, Finance Secretary of the Lotha Hoho and Convener of Tokhü Emong 2025, who expressed appreciation to all participants, well-wishers, and partners for their support in making the celebration a success.
Tokhü Emong: A Festival of Harmony
Earlier on the same day, the festival was graced by MLA, Dr Neisatuo Mero as the special guest. In his address, Dr Mero highlighted the festival's ethos of community bonding and thanksgiving, drawing parallels with the Chakhesang tribe's celebrations.
He remarked that the Lotha community has been blessed with fertile land and abundant agricultural and horticultural produce, which continue to sustain and strengthen the local economy.
Referring to the blessings bestowed upon the Lotha people, he cited the Doyang Hydro Project, which generates 75 MW of power, and the annual roosting of the Amur Falcons, both of which hold immense economic and tourism potential. He also mentioned the district’s untapped oil reserves, noting that their proper utilisation could greatly contribute to the region’s development.
Lauding the Lotha community for its commendable achievements in competitive examinations and for producing capable officers and professionals, Dr Mero described the Lothas as hardworking and disciplined. He encouraged others to emulate these virtues and emphasised the importance of dignity of labour, urging everyone to respect all forms of work and cultivate good habits.
Underscoring the vital role of leadership in shaping society, he remarked that good leaders uplift communities, whereas irresponsible leadership can become a burden to the people. He called upon citizens to be “rays of sunshine” in their respective spheres and to draw inspiration from their ancestors, who courageously resisted external domination.
Concluding his address, the special guest expressed hope that the celebration of Tokhü Emong would continue to inspire good leadership, harmony, and longevity within the community.
Delivering Tokhü greetings, ADC Wokha, Renbomo Ezung, reflected on the changing times cautioning, in the pursuit of a fast-paced modern life, communities risk losing touch with their cultural roots.
He observed that while Tokhü Emong was once celebrated with greater unity and spirit, its essence has gradually diminished over time.
The ADC therefore urged the gathering to uphold the festival’s core values of unity, reconciliation, and friendship while embracing modernity, and to continue fostering love, respect, and harmony within society.
As part of the celebration, the finals of the Tug of War competition were held, where Midland Colony emerged as champions for the second consecutive year. GHS Colony and Zuvotong Colony secured the second and third positions respectively.
