Tsonglaknyi cum Mini Hornbill festival of the Tikhir Tribe was held at Kiusam Town on 11th October 2022 hosted by Tikhir Tribal Council with Advisor Fisheries & Aquatic Resources, Evaluation, Economics & Statistics, L. Khumo as the special guest.
The message of Chief Minister of Nagaland, Neiphiu Rio was delivered by L. Khumo Advisor, Fisheries & Aquatic Resources, Evaluation, Economics & Statistics.
The Chief Minister stated that festivals have become the main platform for preserving cultures and traditions and it is this cultural diversity that makes Nagaland one of the most enchanting states in India.
He said that the Tikhirs have a very rich culture and traditions and they must continue to preserve the same- "In a fast globalized materialistic world, it is easy for us to forget our culture and traditions. This would amount to losing one's identity as well as one's roots." He mentioned that while inaugurating the new district of Shamator, the Government has given the district tag "Brotherhood District" and urged the people to lead the way to promote brotherhood and peaceful co-existence amongst all sections of society.
CM also congratulated the Tikhirs on being recognized as a separate Naga tribe which is very significant but added that recognition is only the beginning, people must strive to excel in every way in the days to come.
Rio also mentioned that the Government is striving and doing its best to uplift the socio-economic conditions of every naga in every sphere in health, education, entrepreneurship development, and child/ women welfare among others. He appealed to the Tikhir people to be proactive and strive for economic development through positive people participation and availing the assistance given by the Government.
The Chief Minister urged everyone to use this festive occasion to purify, humble themselves before God and work towards reconciliation, retrospections and renew the spirit of peace and prosperity.
'Tsonglaknyi' is the main festival of Tikhir and also the most important festival of the Tikhirs. It is celebrated for four days from the 9th to the 12th of October every year. The word ' Tsonglaknyi' is made up of three words ' Tsong' meaning shield, 'lak' meaning sanctification, and 'nyi' meaning festival.
Tsonglaknyi is a festival of the sanctification of the shield. It also means the sanctification of the weapon along with their wealth and valuable assets as well as the purification of the menfolk. The festival is one of the most important among the Tikhir festivals.
During the function short speeches were also delivered by DC Kiphire, ENPO Joint Secretary, ADC Pungro, 41 Assam Rifles Commandant Tripati, USLP Vice_ president, and CKS president respectively.
Special guest L. Khumo in his speech appreciated the Tikhir Council for organizing such a big event to celebrate the Tsonglaknyi festival and thanked the leaders for their sacrifices and dedication.
Khumo said the traditional festival has been an indispensable part of people's life since the olden days. The Tikhir Naga, like other tribal societies, has a richly unique culture and tradition. Traditional festivals play a leading role in preserving traditional culture and promoting cultural continuity.
Advisor mentioned that for many years, Tikhir Community has been struggling for recognition and by the grace of God Tikhir community has achieved their long-cherished dream.
Under the leadership of the Chief Minister, there have been so many achievements and there will be many more upcoming programmes and developmental activities.
Khumo assured that whenever the Tikhir community needs him, he is ever ready to assist them in every aspect. Also, while highlighting the significance of the festival he encouraged the elderly people to teach the youngsters about the rich culture and traditional way of life.
The display of "Tsonglaknyi" was presented by the elderly people, followed by a cultural presentation.
(Wangshikokla IA Kiphire)
