Nagaland Chief Minister, Dr. Neiphiu Rio attended the second day of the Sekrenyi cum Mini Hornbill Festival at Kisama Heritage Village, celebrating the cultural heritage of the Angami Naga tribe on 26th February 2025.
Addressing the gathering, Dr. Rio highlighted the uniqueness of Sekrenyi, stating that while most Naga festivals revolve around agricultural activities, Sekrenyi is centered on purification and renewal. He recalled that during the British era and earlier times, Nagas sought the support of their friends in times of war, and Sekrenyi continues to symbolize unity and mutual support among the tribes.
Dr. Rio emphasized the importance of safeguarding Naga culture and traditions, pointing out that the Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation (BEFR) Act led to the introduction of the Inner Line Permit (ILP), which continues to protect the Naga way of life. He stated that after India’s independence, customary laws and traditions were not disrupted but rather strengthened.
Urging the community to uphold traditional values, he noted that tourists visit Nagaland to experience its authentic culture, not modern western influences. He called on everyone to reflect on their cultural roots and work towards preserving Naga traditions.
The Chief Minister also spoke about the significance of Tribal Hohos, Village Courts, and Apex Courts, citing the Kezoltsa issue as an example where community organizations like the Angami Public Organisation (APO) and Tenyimia Public Organisation (TPO) and others resolved the matter that could have been difficult for superior courts.
He pointed out that litigation in higher courts is expensive, often disadvantageous to economically weaker individuals due to high legal fees.
Acknowledging the wisdom of the older generations, Dr. Rio praised their sense of gratitude, ethical values, and sustainable use of natural resources. He stressed the importance of preserving traditions and suggested that festivals like Sekrenyi should serve as platforms to review and report cultural progress.
President of APO, Theja-o Vihienuo, in his festival greetings, spoke about the purification rituals of Sekrenyi done to receive blessings, and urged people to introspect if they prepare themselves spiritually and morally to qualify for the blessings.
The festival program, chaired by APO Vice-President Vikehelie Victor Khawakhrie, featured various traditional performances, including Blowing of Traditional Horn by Visosieto Vüprü, Folk Fusion by Seyiekuolie Bio and friends, Phichü Ja by Vilazosie Punyü, Head GB of Khonoma, Tshaze Pfhe and Helim by the Lidi Kro-u Society. Meguo-o Mechülho gave a detailed explanation of how Sekrenyi was celebrated, President ABCC Rev. Savito Nagi said the invocation prayer.
The event was attended by several dignitaries, including Minister Salhoutuonuo Kruse, Advisor, Hekani Jakhalu, Advisor, Kropol Vitsu, Advisor, Zhaleo Rio, and Advisor, Kekhrie Yhome, MLA, Kevipodi Sophie, along with a host of Kohima Tribal Unions and Government Officials.
The festival’s highlights included Naga Wrestling Exhibition and Tug of War.
(DPRO Kohima)
