14 Nov : Nagas are at a crossroad from all angles, be at cultural, social, political, reconciliation and unification, development etc.We should visualize lest we regret.
Modernization and invasion of foreign culture should not be allowed to do away with our rich cultural heritage. Christianity has come to stay but our culture and festivals must be preserved. It is for this very reason that the government of Nagaland has initiated the Hornbill festival said Neiphui Rio, speaking at the Sumi Ahuna at Zunheboto Local ground on 14th November 2008.
He also mentioned that our character and our identity is the most important of all social discourses, referring to the Nagas in the present context. Today our society is in such a situation where no church or undergound leaders or anyone can solve our perplex problem. To march ahead everyone must play their own respective role at this juncture with a clear vision and taking God as our director we must put our effort to take a stand for a peaceful Nagaland.
Meanwhile, referring to our forefather’s festivity, he said they never celebrated festivals by borrowing but by self earning. We must learn that our forefathers are hard workers and today we must retrospect where we stand. He quoted a verse from the Bible and quipped, “thou shall eat by the sweat of thy brow”. Meanwhile he said that the replacement of Ashoka Chakra by a Mithun in the official logo for Nagaland State is to show our identity, work culture, uniqueness and unity. The logo is historical, significant and dignified he said. In the end he invoked God’s blessing on the Sumi Nagas all over the state.
The programme was organized by Concern Citizens Forum Zunheboto and chaired by Chairman CCFZ, Y.Vihoshe Muru . Earlier Ahuna greeting was proposed by president Sumi Hoho, Hokishe Yepthomi. The cultural programme followed latter with participation cultural troupes from Chuchuyimlang village, Touphema village, Dzulhami village and Longridang village.
The Chief Minister was accompanied by T.R. Zeliang, Minister for Planning & Co Ordination, G.Kaito Aye, Minister for Road & Bridges, M.C.Konyak, Minister for Forest, Kuzholuzo Nienu, Minister for Health & Family Welfare, Dr. K.C.Nihoshe, Parliamentary Secretary for Industries & Commerce, T.Torechu, Parliamentary Secretary, CAWD, Chotisüh Sazo, Parliamentary Secretary for Social Welfare, Dr. Nicky Kire, MLA & Chairman, NKVIB, L.Temjen Jamir, MLA, Chairman, NBDA, Shetoye, MLA & Chairman, NHHDC, President of Angami Public Organization, President of Chakhesang Public Organisation and host of senior government officials participated the Ahuna festival. The Chief Minister also latter graced the raising ceremony of senior citizens Forum Zunheboto.