Preparation for Mungmung Mini Hornbill Festival underway in Kiphire

KIPHIRE — People from five areas of Kiphire district namely Sitimi, Longmatra, Seyochung, Kiphire and Amahator came together to build Kuying (Morung) at Kiphire public ground.

The collective efforts marked the beginning of Mungmung Mini Hornbill festival of the Sangtam Nagas. The official celebration would take place on September 3 and 4.

Organised by the United Sangtam Likhüm Pümji (USLP), in collaboration with the Government of Nagaland and Nagaland Tourism, the Mungmung festival is the main festival of the Sangtam people, which is celebrate before harvest.

The Mini Hornbill festival will showcase the tribe’s traditions, music, dance and art.

A Island Peace Yangthsaba, joint secretary of USLP, informed the public that Mungmung Festival 2024 will be a unique celebration, focusing deeply on the traditions and culture of the Sangtam people. He added that this year, there will be no modern tools or activities but only cultural performances and practices.

He also informed that unlike previous years, there will be no mass cultural participation. The change was intended to allow the public to fully enjoy and understand each specific activity, as ample time will be given for each performance.

Additionally, translations of every performance and song will be provided during the event.

Different areas will have their own Kuying (Morung) to showcase their distinct culture and traditions.

The special guests for this year’s festival will be the president of ENPO and the DC of Kiphire. This step has been taken to emphasise unity and to strengthen bonds within ENPO and with neighboring tribes.

“We are also extending invitations to all tribal leaders under ENPO and to the leaders of the neighbouring Pochury tribe. This festival is not merely for celebration but is aimed at fostering unity within ENPO and the surrounding communities.

“Together, let us bridge the gaps and come together in the spirit of unity through this festival,” Yangthsaba added.