Angami Public Organization organised the two-day Sekrenyi-cum-Mini Hornbill Festival at Sovima Village Council Ground in Dimapur, drawing hundreds of people dressed in colourful traditional attire. The event was sponsored by the Department of Tourism and marked the culmination of the Angami community’s annual Sekrenyi celebration.Addressing the gathering as special guest, Tourism Minister Temjen Imna Along called for unity among Naga tribes and stressed the need to preserve indigenous culture and traditions while upholding the Christian faith. He said communities such as the Angamis, Aos, Sumis, Lothas, Chakhesangs, Zeliangs and Konyaks must protect their customs and way of life to move forward as a strong and progressive society.Along said that faith and tradition can go hand in hand. He noted that Christianity remains central to Naga identity, but cultural heritage must also be safeguarded and passed on to future generations. He credited Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio for promoting the Hornbill and Mini Hornbill festivals, stating that these initiatives have helped revive traditional practices and strengthen cultural pride across the state.
The minister also spoke about the need for unity among Nagas. He said that while literacy levels have increased and tribal identities have grown stronger, people must come together for peace and common progress. He urged community leaders, church leaders and youth to engage in meaningful dialogue.Raising concern over illegal immigration, Along said Nagaland’s tribal diversity is its strength, but protecting indigenous identity requires awareness and lawful action. He referred to the Inner Line Permit system and encouraged cooperation between indigenous communities and lawful non-Naga residents engaged in business and other work.Earlier, APO president Thejao Vihienuo spoke about the spiritual meaning of Sekrenyi, describing it as a festival of purification and renewal. He said that though ancestral rituals are no longer practised after the community embraced Christianity, the spirit of dedication to God remains important.
The programme began with an invocation prayer by CRC Sovima village pastor Rev. Zhau Sanchu. A welcome address was delivered by APO secretary (finance) Dr. Khriezotuo Paphino. Greetings were shared by leaders of different organisations, and the significance of the festival was explained by Sovima Head GB Thepfukeduo Kuotsu.Several dignitaries attended the event, including Advisor for Urban Development and Municipal Affairs Zhaleo Rio, minister for Women Resource Development and Horticulture Salhoutuonuo Kruse, and advisor to the Chief Minister and IDAN chairman Abu Metha.
