Longsa village, Mokokchung, 2nd August (Nokinketer News): The Longsa Village Council celebrated the Tsüngremmung Festival 2026 with traditional grandeur at Salang Lenden, Longsa, on Saturday under the patronage of the Department of Tourism, Government of Nagaland.

Minister for Rural Development & SIRD, Metsübo Jamir, attended as the Chief Host, while Advisor for Land Resources & MLA, G. Ikuto Zhimomi, was the Guest of Honour and Advisor for Youth Resources & Sports & MLA, S. Keoshu Yimkhiung, the Honoured Guest. MLA Benei M. Lamthiu, district officials, village leaders and a large gathering of people attended the celebration. The festival commenced with the traditional ceremonial vine-pulling procession.

Addressing the gathering, Keoshu said festivals should inspire people to seek God’s blessings, promote peace and strengthen unity while preserving the positive values inherited from their forefathers. Expressing concern over divisions in Naga society, he called for renewed unity and collective responsibility to build a stronger future. He also urged the younger generation to preserve the cultural significance of Tsüngremmung rather than viewing it merely as a celebration.

Extending Tsüngremmung greetings, Zhimomi said tribal festivals are central to Naga identity and play an important role in preserving history, traditions and cultural values. He encouraged the youth to safeguard their heritage and noted that the Ao community’s rich cultural traditions have significant potential to contribute to Nagaland’s growing tourism sector.

Chief Host Metsübo Jamir and Advisor for Water Resources & MLA Tongpang Ozukum also extended festival greetings. The celebration featured cultural performances by the Sangphur Village Cultural Troupe and Surumi Village Cultural Troupe, along with traditional events including a cockfight, indigenous games and a tug-of-war. The programme also included a presentation on the significance of Tsüngremmung, traditional folk songs and performances by winners of the July 31 cultural competition.

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