DIMAPUR — Farmers celebrate the Ahuna festival after harvesting the fruit of their yearlong hard work, likewise, students also should study hard to become successful people, said Y Kikheto Sema, Commissioner and Secretary, Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Government of Nagaland.
He was speaking at the Ahuna festival organised by the Sumi Student’s Union Guwahati at Shilpgram NEZCC Guwahati on the theme “Pruning our Identity ” on November 10, informed a delayed report from DIPR.
‘Changes should take place in our traditional practices which are not applicable in today’s society,’ he said, adding that ‘while protecting our culture we should also respect others cultures, but we should not adopt their culture. Misuse of our culture and identity by outsiders in our own land is unacceptable.’
Highlighting the significance and relevance of the festival in the 21st century, he said 71% of the Nagas live in rural areas and are engaged in jhum cultivation with 11-12 phases of activities in a year.
Sema celebrates Ahuna after a yearlong hard work to thank the almighty God for his bountiful harvest, while also welcoming the new agricultural year. The entire community feast meal of rice Ahu-na, first rice cooked in bamboo segments, he said.
H KashitoYepthomi, Western Sumi Kukami Hoho was Ahuna Papuh of the festival, while Alobo Naga presented a song. Representatives from Western Sumi Kukami Hoho, various tribal student leaders, Naga Students’ Union Guwahati and hundreds of students attended the programme.
Also read: SUD and Ikishe village celebrate Ahuna
