The Sumi Community of New Ministers’ Hill (SCNMH), Kohima, celebrated Tuluni Festival with a vibrant cultural programme showcasing the rich traditions and heritage of the Sumi community with Y. Kikheto Sema, IAS, Principal Secretary & Development Commissioner as the host at his official residence at New Ministers' Hill Kohima on 8th July 2026.
Speaking as the host of the Tuluni Festival celebration organised by the Sumi Community, New Ministers’ Hill, Kohima, Y. Kikheto Sema said that the traditions and festivals of the Sumi people are deeply rooted in agriculture. He described Tuluni as one of the most significant festivals of the Sumi community, symbolising thanksgiving to Almighty God for a successful harvest after months of hard work in the fields.
Highlighting the significance of the festival, he said Tuluni is traditionally observed during the peak of the agricultural season and serves as a celebration of abundance, gratitude, unity, and fellowship. The festival strengthens family and community bonds through the sharing of meals, exchange of goodwill, and prayers for continued peace, prosperity, and a bountiful harvest.
He emphasised that the true spirit of Tuluni lies in the value of hard work, stating that the festival would have little meaning without the labour that precedes it. He urged the people, particularly the younger generation, to return to their agricultural roots, noting that Nagaland is blessed with diverse agro-climatic conditions where almost any crop can flourish if people are willing to work diligently.
Drawing inspiration from the biblical account of Israel, he recalled how God promised the land of Canaan to the Israelites. After years of wandering in the wilderness, they entered the Promised Land and, through faith, determination, and hard work, cultivated it into a prosperous nation. In contrast, he observed that although Nagas are blessed with fertile land, the lack of unity and a strong work culture has hindered the State's progress. He remarked that while the land is fertile, "our minds have become like barren land," and called upon the Nagas, particularly the Sumi community, to cultivate a stronger work ethic and spirit of unity.
Y. Kikheto Sema also urged the Sumi community residing in Kohima to be ambassadors of peace and harmony among all tribes. He expressed gratitude to the Angami community for fostering an environment of peaceful coexistence and mutual respect in the State capital, encouraging everyone to continue strengthening the bonds of friendship and unity.
Concluding his address, he extended his warm Tuluni greetings to the Sumi Community of New Ministers Hill, Kohima, and to all Sumi people wherever they may be, wishing them a joyous, peaceful, and prosperous celebration.
The celebration featured various cultural items like Athi Sheküsü Le, Itsa, Ami Küküla, Lejole and Aphilo Kuwo. This was followed by Tuluni Ghili, by the Advisor of SCNMH, Toniho Sheqhi, who highlighted the cultural significance and essence of the Tuluni festival.
(Avika Awomi, IA)
