Tokhu Emong celebrations in Wokha showcase indigenous games, Lotha traditions and cultural pride, with a call for youth empowerment
WOKHA — The second day of the Tokhu Emong celebrations witnessed an enthusiastic display of indigenous games and cultural pride at Wokha Public Ground on Thursday, as participants from different sections of the community competed in traditional events that reflected the rich heritage of the Lotha people.
The day-long programme featured competitions in tug-of-war, traditional winnowing, high jump, Naga karting and wooden top spinning, drawing active participation and public interest.
Deputy Commissioner of Wokha, K Mhathung Tsanglao, attended the occasion as the guest of the event.
In his address, he described Tokhu Emong as an important cultural platform that preserves and promotes the traditions, history and values of the Lotha community while fostering friendship, forgiveness and unity.
Reflecting on the significance of the festival, Tsanglao said Tokhu Emong continues to strengthen bonds among people through the spirit of reconciliation and oneness.
He urged the gathering to uphold the traditional values passed down by their ancestors and to work collectively for the welfare and progress of society.
Also read: Lotha community begins four-day Tokhü Emong festival celebration in Wokha
Speaking on personal and community development, the deputy commissioner spoke about what he termed the "three minds" in life. He explained that the first is a selfish mindset focused solely on personal gain, often driven by jealousy and negativity.
He encouraged the gathering, particularly the youth, to adopt the third and broader mindset, which seeks the advancement of the entire community and contributes towards collective progress and achievement.
Tsanglao also challenged young people to redefine success beyond securing government employment. He encouraged them to be innovative, entrepreneurial and capable of creating opportunities for others rather than solely seeking jobs themselves.
Highlighting government initiatives aimed at skill development and self-employment, he urged youths to avail themselves of free skill-training programmes and subsidised loan schemes.
He stressed the importance of dignity of labour, self-reliance and resilience, encouraging young people to explore the vast potential and resources available in Wokha district.
The deputy commissioner further called upon the community to preserve and promote indigenous traditions through active participation in cultural activities.
He expressed hope that the spirit of unity, forgiveness and cultural pride associated with Tokhu Emong would continue to inspire future generations.
Later, Tsanglao officially declared the indigenous games competition open.
The competitions were conducted by Team Metamorphosis. In the high jump event, Aben Ezung emerged champion while Asemo Murry secured the runners-up position. In the traditional wooden top spinning competition, Orenlow Humtsoe and Chumben Humtsoe secured first and second places respectively.
In the Lotha Naga-style traditional winnowing competition, Zanbeni Kithan (14) claimed the title, while Rabemo Ngullie and Asemo Murry emerged winners in the Naga karting event.
The finals of the tug-of-war competition are scheduled for November 7, the concluding day of the festival.
Meanwhile, the cultural day programme on November 6 will be attended by Wonchio Odyuo, Secretary to the Government of Nagaland, as the special guest.
The event will feature folk song and folk dance competitions, showcasing the cultural richness of the Lotha community.