A milestone: Lotha Hoho celebrates centenary

WOKHA — The Lotha Hoho celebrated its centenary on the theme ‘Chanting for the deliverance of century’s blessing’ at local ground, Wokha town, on Monday.

Deputy Chief Minister Y Patton was the chief host of the celebration, while Mhathung Yanthan, Advisor for Agriculture; Y Mhonbemo Humtsoe, MLA; Achumbemo Kikon, MLA; Dr. Chumben Murry, Advisor to the chief minister; K Libanthung Lotha, commissioner and secretary, and Mhondamo Ovung, chairman of Lotha Hoho, were the special guests.

In his address, the deputy CM extended centennial greetings to the gathering and thanked the pioneers and present leaders of Lotha Hoho for their selfless contributions to Lotha society.

Stating that a jubilee represents a celebration of forgiveness and love, Patton urged the community to use “this milestone” (centenary) as an opportunity to resolve misunderstandings and foster a spirit of brotherhood.

He also called for an end to clanism and the formation of numerous organisations.

Pointing out that selfishness can lead to disunity and degradation of society, Patton emphasised on the need for generosity and contributions to promote comprehensive development.

He highlighted the importance of community support for the successful functioning of any organisation.

Preserving local traditions and protecting and conserving wild animals were other key points in Patton’s speech. The deputy CM also released the centenary souvenir.

It was an honour to be a part of the Centennial Jubilee celebration of the Lotha Hoho in Wokha today and share my thoughts. The Lotha Hoho has been a unifying force for a century now, and on this significant day, we not only reflect on a remarkable past but also look to a future… pic.twitter.com/922dzKpfHF

— Yanthungo Patton (@YanthungoPatton) November 6, 2023

Mhathung Yanthan commended the Lotha Hoho and its affiliated organisations for taking the initiative to celebrate the centenary. He encouraged the gathering to follow the footsteps of their forefathers and celebrate the unity.

Affirming that Lotha Hoho pioneers and past leaders served as role models for the Nagas, Yanthan said that it’s the duty of all concerned members to support Lotha Hoho for all-round development.

Calling for unity, peace, love and forgiveness, he urged every individual to take responsibility for positive change by acknowledging past mistakes.

Y Mhonbemo Humtsoe expressed gratitude to God for the blessings received during the 100-year journey. He stressed the importance of reconciliation and forgiveness, highlighting the link between forgiving others and receiving God’s forgiveness, leading to prosperity and peace.

As the Lothas celebrate the hoho’s centenary, Humtsoe encouraged retrospection of the past and seeking forgiveness for past mistakes, while aiming for positive changes in the future.

Extending his greetings, Achumbemo Kikon, gave a brief background on the formation of Lotha Hoho, formerly known as Lotha Tribal Council, way back in 1923. He also highlighted Wokha’s historical significance for the Lothas and Nagas in general. Kikon further called on the community to look forward with a vision to lead Naga society.

Dr. Chumben Murry acknowledged the challenges faced by Lotha leaders in establishing the Lotha Tribal Council, which was also recognized by the British.

Murry highlighted the significant changes in the 100-year journey, particularly the impact of Christianity and modern governance.

Vice president of the Lotha Officers’ Association, Khyopenthung Tsopoe, called for an end to any ‘isms’ that might hinder Lotha society’s growth and progress.

Earlier, chairman of Lotha Hoho, Mhondamo Ovung, delivered the welcome address, Rev. Sankiluma Kikon offered centennial blessing prayer and Rev. Fr. John Ntonsi invoked God’s blessings.

The dedication of the monolith was led by Rev. Nyanchumo Lotha. Various tribal organisations of Nagaland also delivered short speeches during the event.

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