The celebration of Sekrenyi-cum-Mini Hornbill 2026 was held at Sovima Village Council Ground on 25th of February 2026, organized by the Sovima Angami Organization and Sponsored by the Tourism Department of Nagaland. The event was graced by Temjen Imna Along, Minister for Tourism & Higher Education, as the Chief Guest and Zhaleo Rio, Advisor for Urban Development & Municipal Affairs, as the Guest of Honour, accompanied by  Salhoutuonuo Kruse, Minister for Women Resource Development & Horticulture, Nagaland and Abu Metha, Advisor to CM and Chairman of IDAN, Nagaland. The programme was chaired by Keneilese Neikha, General Secretary of APO.
Addressing the gathering, Minister Imna Along extended his greetings to the Angami community and lauded the organizers for hosting an inclusive celebration that brought together leaders from various Naga tribes. He underscored the importance of unity among indigenous communities, stating that such platforms strengthen bonds and reinforce a shared Naga identity.
On cultural preservation, Imna Along stressed that indigenous tribes must safeguard their heritage, traditions and way of life while remaining firmly rooted in Christian faith. “Faith and culture are not enemies. We can preserve what is right in our tradition while standing firm in our belief,” he said.
Highlighting the revival of cultural pride in the state, he credited initiatives under Chief Minister Dr. Neiphiu Rio, particularly the promotion of the Hornbill Festival and mini-festivals across districts, for strengthening indigenous identity and encouraging cultural resurgence.
On the issue of illegal immigration, the minister described it as one of the major long-term challenges facing Nagaland. He clarified that the matter should not be viewed through a religious lens, but rather as a question of legality and the protection of indigenous rights. “Anyone who comes legally, respects our laws, and contributes positively to society is not our enemy. But we must ensure that our legal systems are respected,” he asserted.
Referring to the Inner Line Permit (ILP) system, Along explained that it was designed to regulate entry and safeguard indigenous interests, not to harass genuine Indian citizens. He added that the state government has framed policies to regularize long-term residents who have lived in Nagaland for several decades.
Calling for responsible leadership, the minister urged citizens to support leaders who promote dialogue, sanity and unity instead of division. Expressing concern over growing unrest and frequent agitations, he said Nagaland, known as a Christian state, must reflect patience, stability and mutual respect. “We belong to different tribes, but we must aspire together as Nagas. Unity does not erase identity; it strengthens it,” he remarked.
Describing Sekrenyi as a festival of purification, Along said its message remains deeply relevant today. He called upon Naga communities to purify themselves from suspicion, propaganda and division, and instead built stronger bridges of trust.
Thejao vihienuo, the President of the Angami Public Organisation (APO), in his address, reflected on the historical and spiritual roots of Sekrenyi, the sacred festival of purification traditionally observed by the Angami people. He noted that in the past, forefathers worshipped unknown spirits, offering prayers and rituals as they understood them. Sekrenyi was then a time of sanctification and a means to foretell the fortunes of the coming cultivation season and new year, a season marked by renewal, reflection and hope.
Today, with the Angami community having overwhelmingly embraced Christianity, the ancestral rituals are no longer practiced. However, he emphasized that the deeper essence of Sekrenyi, the call to purify one’s soul and renew one’s spirit, remains profoundly meaningful. “If God, in His greatness, had instilled in the hearts of our ancestors the need for purification and dedications, then we, in our present faith, have even greater reason to observe this festival in a renewed spirit,” he said.
The President maintains that Sekrenyi continues to carry spiritual and cultural significance. The festival is now seen as an occasion to dedicate oneself afresh, renew one’s bond with the Creator and Lord and Savior, and seek blessings for the people and the land. “It is with this purpose and vision that we are gathered here today,” he stated.

 (Limatoshi, IA Chumukidima)