Kohima: The Angami Nagas celebrated its premier festival–Sekrenyi cum Mini Hornbill festival at the Bamboo hall, the Naga Heritage village, Kisama with chief minister Neiphiu Rio as the special guest.
The event was organised by Angami Public Organization(APO). The celebration was attended by the various frontal organisations and youth organizations.
Gracing the occasion, the chief minister congratulated the APO for organizing the premiere festival to revive and preserve the rich heritage and cultural practices of the Angami Nagas.
He urged all Angamis to unite and encouraged people to uplift and support one another in all walks of life. Rio also urged the need to preserve and protect the tribe’s culture and identity for the sake of future generations.
Sekrenyi is the festival of “purification and sanctification” of the body, mind and soul.
In the past, rituals would cleanse past wrongs and sins. They would also usher in greater aspirations and purpose in life. The festival also marks the initiation of the young into adulthood. Therefore, it is considered to be the identity hallmark of the Angamis.
The programme was led by Razouvoto Chatsu, president Angami Public Organization while Mekhale Yhoshü invoked god’s blessing.
The festival was followed by the Sekrenyi feast.