Sumi community celebrates Ahuna with traditional fervour

DIMAPUR — Ahuna, a post harvest festival of the Sumi Naga, was celebrated with a spirit of oneness, exuberant exhibition of rich cultural heritage and fusion of modern entities at DSCZ ground in Zunheboto town on Thursday.

The celebration, organised by the Sumi Hoho, was attended by the advisor of Food and Civil Supplies and Legal Metrology, K Tokugha Sukhalu as ‘Ahuna Papu.’ Speaking on the occasion, Sukhalu emphasised the importance of valuing one’s traditions, customs and cultural practices handed down by the forefathers.

He reminded that Zunheboto, located at the centre of Nagaland, is one of the oldest districts in the state, blessed with a rich history that should be honoured and maintained with respect and dignity by the present generation and carried on to the future generations as well, stated a DIPR report.

Sukhalu stressed on the evolving nature of traditions and cultural practices, acknowledging that while some customs may change with time, the core values such as honesty, hard work, generosity, courage and community must remain primary to the Sumi identity. He also pointed out that traditions do not necessarily conflict with economic progress.

Also read: Ahuna celebrates Sümi heritage, unity and resilience

He urged the community to be cautious of misleading information in today’s digital age, emphasising the importance of unity and shared goals for the survival and growth of the Sumi people.

The advisor also reflected on how Nagaland has changed over the years by highlighting the growing competitions for jobs, the need for higher qualifications, and the necessity for hard work and dedication in today’s world. He warned that relying on shortcuts like backdoor opportunities would only leave the community lagging behind in a rapidly evolving society.

He also exhorted the younger generation to focus on education as it holds key to the community’s future progress.

In conclusion, the advisor urged the Sumi community to reflect on the true meaning of the festivals, especially Ahuna and Tuluni, which are celebrations of agricultural labour, reiterating that those festivals were not just about the harvest but about honouring the dignity of labour and coming together as a community to celebrate prosperity with unity.

Historical and ritualistic significance of the Ahuna festival was highlighted by the former president of Sumi Hoho, Dr. HS Rotokha.

A series of enthralling performances including special presentations by students of Immanuel Higher Secondary School and Cornerstone Higher Secondary School, Sumi war dance by students of Bloomfield Higher Secondary School followed by a Tishole by students of Olympic Higher Secondary School were the highlights of the day.

The cultural festivities were complemented by series of traditional competitions including spear kicking and rhythmic jumping, showcasing the physical prowess and agility of the participants.

In another programme, the advisor of Tribal Affairs and Election department, H Tovihoto Ayemi attended the Ahuna celebration in Viyilho village under Zunheboto district on Thursday at the special guest.

Ayemi stated that Ahuna is not just a celebration but a tapestry of culture, history, and community spirit that weaves together all individuals as one people. He pointed out that festival such as Ahuna serves as reminders of shared and collective aspirations of the people for a peaceful and progressive society, which is only possible when there is unity and brotherhood among the people.

He urged the people of Viyilho to let unity and brotherhood prevail not only during festive time but at all times and set it as a good example for others. He also dwelt on the age-old connection between Viyilho village and Thahekhu village in Dimapur district and said that such relationships should be kept alive.

The celebration was marked with ceremonial bonfire, folk songs and dances along with other traditional and cultural arts and games.

The Awotsakilimi Union Dimapur (AUD) along with their in-laws celebrated the Ahuna festival at Purana Bazar hosted by P Tokugha Achumi, director of Industries and Commerce, on Thursday.

Delivering the welcome address, Achumi thanked the Sümi ancestors for starting the Ahuna festival and stated that celebrating the festival is still relevant to the present society.

He stressed on the importance of preserving cultural heritage and expounded that people who have lost their culture have lost their identity. He also encouraged the members to be a good citizen of society.

Kihoto Achumi spoke on the significance of Ahuna festival.