Dimapur, Nov. 14 (EMN): On the auspicious occasion of Khilünye-cum-Fhünye to be celebrated on Nov. 15, the Chakhesang Cultural Organisation has extended warm greetings to every Chokupu (Chakhesang) home and Naga brethren and prayed God to ‘richly bless every home bountiful returns’.
The CCO Advisor, Zacilhü R. Vadeo, in a press note, stated that Khilünye (festival of partaking the first and fresh crops from barns)-cum-Fhünye (fish festival) are celebrated right after paddy harvest in the month of November.
Saying that Khilünye and Fhünye were initially practised by the Chokri sect of Phek district since the ancient time, Vadeo said that in present days, Nov. 15 is set for its celebration for the convenience and common interest of all concerned. He said that the church leaders are also expected to organise thanksgiving programmes/prayers on this occasion to ask God for His blessings.
“Khilünye and Fhünye are unique and rare occasions. It is rare because hardly any other society celebrate Khilünye and Fhünye,” stated Vadeo.
While dwelling on the significance of the festival, Vadeo said that traditionally, fish is believed to signify money and wealth and it is regarded to be clean and holy as it lives in water.
“It is also believed that water signifies richness. Thus, partaking fish with the first grain of the new harvest is believed to bring/beget good fortunes,” said Vadeo.
Besides, he also said that generally and traditionally, the Chakhesang practices terrace cultivation and pisciculture and every household rears mostly mud fish in the wet paddy fields.
“The piscicultural practice ensures and endures the practice of Fhünye since the olden days. People exchange their curry and Shedzü (grain-brewed juice/wine) with friends, near and dear ones, and also offer them to the old and needy people,” the CCO advisor stated.
While saluting ‘those pioneer villages which steadfastly carried on such unique traditions till date, Vadeo solicited the Nagas never to forget the culture and traditions that are the integral parts of a society’s ‘richness and pride’ as it retains and endures out identity and originality.
