The Kohima Lotha Hoho marked its 50th anniversary on November 7 with a grand celebration that coincided with Tokhü Emong, the major festival of the Lotha community. Held at the NBCC Convention Centre under the theme “future-ready reasoning,” the event brought together tribal leaders, community members, and officials from across Nagaland, highlighting the organisation’s enduring legacy and commitment to community development.
Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio, the chief guest, congratulated the organisation for reaching this significant milestone and praised the gathering for uniting Lothas from various districts alongside leaders from other communities. He described the occasion as a strong testament to unity and emphasised the importance of preserving Lotha traditions for future generations. Highlighting Wokha district’s rich natural resources and the community’s high ranking in per capita income and human development indices, Rio credited the Lotha people’s hardworking and innovative approach for their progress. He called for sustained peace and urged citizens to channel their energies toward constructive goals.
Deputy Chief Minister Yanthungo Patton, guest of honour, encouraged the youth to pursue education while maintaining unity and harmony, rejecting divisive attitudes. He acknowledged the significance of the golden jubilee coinciding with Tokhü Emong and expressed gratitude for the Lotha community’s continued support to the state government.
During the event, Rio launched “The Divine in the Ordinary”, a book authored by Sentienla P Ezung. Kohima Lotha Hoho chairman K.N. Mhonthung Lotha traced the community’s history in Kohima back to 1878, noting that the first Lotha settler married an Angami woman, laying the foundation for goodwill between the two communities. He described the golden jubilee as an opportunity to reflect on the past, celebrate present achievements, and prepare the younger generation to adapt to rapid changes responsibly.
The programme featured the jubilee song “A Lotha” by Eyilobeni Kikon, performances by the jubilee choir, and cultural dances by the Lotsu village troupe. Speeches were delivered by representatives from Lotha Hoho Oking, Lotha Officers’ Association, and Kohima Lotha Ekie Ekhung. Ministers Salhoutuonuo Kruse, Mhathung Yanthan, advisors Kekhrielhoulie Yhome, Chumben, Kropol Vitsu, MLAs Y Mhonbemo Humtsoe, Achumbemo Kikon, as well as church and tribal leaders, graced the occasion, marking it as a grand celebration of Lotha heritage and future aspirations.
