Nagaland: The closing ceremony of the Tsungkamnyo Mini Hornbill Festival 2026, the post-harvest winter festival of the Yimkhiung Naga community, was held in Shamtor town with cultural grandeur and a strong message of unity.
A highlight of the festival was the rekindling of friendship between the Sumi and Yimkhiung communities. Dr. Vihuto Asumi, President of the Sumi Hoho, who attended as the tribal guest, announced that both communities have agreed to organize a friendship event once every three years, alternately at Zunheboto and Shamtor headquarters, to further strengthen ties and mutual understanding.
The event marked the culmination of several days of cultural programs, traditional performances, and community interactions under the Mini Hornbill initiative of the Nagaland government.
MLA Dr. Sukhato A. Sema was present as the special guest. The program was presided over by S., Advisor, Youth Resources and Sports. Hosted by Keoshu Yimkhiung and compered by Dokingla and Alun L. Khiungru.
The ceremony began with an invocation by Dr. Jiseha, Literature Secretary of the YBBA, followed by a welcome address by Makhezo, Executive Chairman of the Yimkhiung Tribal Council (YTC). Cultural performances included a folk song from Chesor village and a folk fusion presentation by a fusion ensemble, which captivated the audience, showcasing the richness of Yimkhiung traditions.
In his address, Dr. Sukhato described the Mini Hornbill Festival as a meaningful initiative to bring Naga heritage closer to the people. He said that Tsungkamnyo, celebrated after the harvest season, is a symbol of gratitude, togetherness, generosity, and solidarity, when communities share food, songs, and dances to strengthen social bonds. He emphasized that Yimkhiung culture has always been preserved through everyday life, customs, values, and oral traditions, and urged the younger generation to carry forward their heritage with pride. He added that festivals promote social interaction, foster harmony, celebrate diversity, and contribute to economic development by attracting visitors and supporting local employment.
Acknowledging Dr. Asumi’s presence, Dr. Sukhato recalled the long-standing relationship between the Sumi and Yimkhiung communities, highlighting milestones such as the translation of the Gospel into the Yimkhiung dialect with Sumi support, the Sumi-Yimkhiung Friendship Meet in Chesor in 1996, and the Cultural Exchange Program in 2017. He also commended Keoshu Yimkhiung for hosting the festival in Shamatore district and praised the state government under Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio for promoting cultural initiatives of all recognized Naga tribes. Addressing the youth, Dr. Sema urged them to remain rooted in the values of respect, honesty, compassion, and unity while embracing education and opportunities in a rapidly changing world. He urged elders and leaders to guide the youth with patience and wisdom, emphasizing that progress and tradition are strongest when they work together.
The program also included heritage presentations by Khungpi from Hanjila S (Shamatore Town), Athrong Khun from Khongsa Village, and Yimalukhi Yakali Huhpu from Tsasher Village.
The program concluded with a vote of thanks by co-convener Alula Z. Thsanso and a closing prayer by Pastor Yimto of YBC Tuensang Town.
