Dimapur, Nov. 7 (EMN): Nagaland Governor RN Ravi, Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio, Dy CM Y Patton and others have extended Tokhü Emong greetings to the Lotha community.
In a message issued on Thursday, the governor stated that the festival ‘represents the rich cultural heritage of our people’.
‘We find the importance of road repair and cleaning of wells and the village through many Naga festivals including Tokhü Emong. The practice of good hygiene has always been relevant; however, it is more so today as we continue to fight the pandemic.
‘Tokhü Emong signifies ending of all bitterness and strengthening the familial and social bonding. It is also a celebration of unity and gratitude. I urge upon our youths to carry forward these rich cultural legacies,’ he said.
Rio also took to Twitter to convey his wishes. “Greetings to the Lotha community on the joyous occasion of Tokhü Emong. My best wishes for your well-being and a bountiful harvest,” he wrote.
While extending his greetings, Patton said that “Lotha community traditionally celebrate their priemier Tokhu Emong featival every year during the first week of November, which is popularly known as thanks post-harvest and Thanksgiving festival”.
“The Lotha community is one of the major and pre-dominant Naga tribes renowned for their colourful dances and folk songs and as the community celebrates this premium festival,” he said, while urging the people to “continue to preserve and protect our rich heritage and traditions”.
He wished the community peace, success and a bright future, and further appealed to strictly fallow the government SOP even as they celebrate their festival.
NSCN/GPRN (Reformation): The NSCN (R) has also conveyed Tokhu Emong greetings to the Lotha Nagas.
“The festival which is usually celebrated in the first part of November signifies the end of any bitterness and settlement of all problems. It is also a festival of gratitude, followed by preparation of scrumptious meal, folk dances and other cultural activities,” the message read.
Just as the festival depicts and reflects on promoting peace and brotherhood, the NSCN expressed optimism that through the festivity, the Lotha brothers and sisters will continue to be the ‘frontrunners and torch bearers’ to usher into the new era of oneness, love and solidarity. It further wished them to dwell in ‘prosperity and good tidings’.
