Our Correspondent
Kisama, April 3 (EMN): The Konyak community in Kohima on Saturday celebrated its premier festival ‘Aoleang’ at Kisama amphitheatre with pomp and gaiety. The programme was organised by the Konyak Union Kohima (KUK) in collaboration with different units namely Longchang unit, Tobu unit; Aboi unit, Chen unit, Wakching unit and Mon circle.
Speaking at the celebration, advisor of Fire and Emergencies Services, State Institute of Rural Development (SIRD) and Relief and Rehabilitation, Phowang Konyak, who also graced the occasion as special guest, called for unity among the Konyak people. Expressing happiness to see many Konyaks residing at Kohima in unity, he urged them all to give their best efforts in their endeavours as students and workers irrespective of different professions.
He also exhorted the young Konyaks to be sincere in their studies stating the feature belongs to them. Further, he also encouraged the Konyak community to work collaboratively for the overall growth of the community.
The advisor stated that ‘Aoleang festival’ is celebrated to mark the completion of the old year and welcoming a new year as well as to invoke God’s blessings for the people.
Also speaking on the occasion, the state chaplain, Rev. TW Yamyap highlighted the significance of the festival and said it is the greatest festival of the Konyak Nagas. He stated that the celebration of the festival marks the end of old year (the cold winter season) and the beginning of new year to invoke divine blessing upon the people and their crops for healthy lives and a prosperous new year.
The welcome address was delivered by president of Konyak Union Kohima, Dr. W Phola. Besides the Konyak community, representatives from the Eastern Naga People’s Organisation (ENPO) namely Chang, Khiamniungam, Sangtam, Yimchunger and Phom attended the celebration.
