Tsewlaknyi, one of the premier festivals of the Yimkhiungrü community, was celebrated at the State Academy Hall in Kohima on 18th October 2023. The event was organized by the Yimkhiung Union Kohima, with S. Kisumew Yimchunger, Advisor for Fire & Emergency, Home Guards & Civil Defence, Relief & Rehabilitation, gracing the occasion as a special guest.

Tsewlaknyi is a significant festival among the Yimkhiung community, serving as a time when people come together to celebrate, fostering unity among individuals of all age groups. Additionally, this festival emphasizes the sanctification of traditional weapons such as shields, spears, daos, bows, and arrows. However, in today's context, as the community has largely embraced Christianity, people gather to pray for a better life, leaving behind the use of these weapons.

S. Kisumew Yimchunger expressed gratitude to the Yimkhiung Union Kohima for grandly organizing the festival. He hoped that such celebrations would contribute to a more united, meaningful, and brighter future for the Yimkhiungrü community.

The program's highlights included: Program Host by K. Asang Yimkhiung. Invocation by Wongtokiu, Pastor of YBCK. Welcome Address by A. Akhum, President of Yimkhiung Union Kohima. Significance of Tsewlaknyi by Kiutsuthong. Cultural Song was Performed by Angopung Cultural Club, led by Shophu. Short Speeches were Delivered by Hanji H., Vice President of YTC; Adv. Laji Luyanba; and S. Obed Quinker, Chairman of NBRM and General Secretary (Adm) of NDPP Nagaland. Tsewlaknyi Song was Presented by Daniel Kiutsathong Company. Vote of Thanks by Sanglimew Moses. Benediction by Racheal Bendang, Associate Pastor of YBCK.

           (L. Shahoto Yimchunger, IA)