Snail and trout festival underway in Poilwa village

DIMAPUR — A two-day 5th edition of annual snail and trout festival in Poilwa village under Peren got underway on Friday with the retired principal secretary to the Government of Nagaland, FP Solo, as special guest.

The festival is being organised under the aegis of MT Rhododendron Adventure Club Poilwa village (MRACP).

Speaking at the inaugural function, Solo lauded the organisers MRACP for having him in such joyful occasion. He stated that the snail and trout festival may not be a traditional or normal festival but commented that it is good to organise even non-traditional festival, stated a DIPR report.

“Snails and trout are our popular traditional food items. They may not be popular with youngster who lives in town and cities but it is a special delicacy for older people,” he said.

Solo stated that the Zeliang community is different in many ways and easy to identify because of its uniqueness and encouraged the gathering to preserve their identity and proclaim to the world. He also urged the village council to make some realistic master plan for development of tourism industry in the village.

Asserting that concerned citizen should aim of making Poilwa village into a model tourist village, he encouraged the villagers to approach the Tourism department for technical help and support. He urged the educated young boys and girls to cultivate the habit of appearing various competitive exams.

“If you work hard with total commitment, determination, dedication and passion, everyone will achieve what we desired in life,” Solo said adding “We cannot depend on our parents or others. All of us need to do something to earn for our own livelihood therefore, one should not hesitate or be ashamed to grab any occupation or job for living.” 

He also stressed on the importance of tourism and its viability to generate revenue and added that Poilwa village has huge potential to attract wider participation even in the days to come. He further wished the organisers and all the participants for a grand success of the festival.

Highlights of the event included snail eating competition, Hedip (short jump), Cho-nsin (stone chess), folk song competition, poster competition and traditional attire results.

Activities of the second day would include Hezo-Nzo (hill race), nature walk, snail eating competition, Tamnung (sling shot) poster and traditional display.