KHONSA, Sep 27: In a significant ‘development’, the Nocte and Tutsa communities of Tirap district came together to celebrate their annual millet harvesting festival, Ronghuan Kuhwa, at Nehru Stadium here today.
The celebration began with the Rangtam and Chharom rituals performed by Priest Katgang Lamthak, followed by traditional observances at the Paang.
Gracing the celebration as chief guest, State Assembly Speaker Tesam Pongte stressed the importance of preserving the region’s rich culture and traditions, noting that the younger generation is gradually drifting away from their roots.
Pongte, himself from the Tutsa community, expressed that he felt at home among the hosts and extended greetings to both Nocte and Tutsa people. He lauded the Ronghuan Celebration Committee led by its president Tediap Hallang and secretary Hangrang Bangsia for organizing the event. He also commended Environment & Forests Minister Wangki Lowang and Khonsa East MLA Wanglam Sawin for uniting the two communities in the celebration.
Highlighting that this was the second edition of the Central Ronghuan Kuhwa Festival, initiated under the Department of Indigenous Affairs to recognize indigenous festivals, Pongte called for expanding such celebrations into larger platforms like Tirap Fest, Changlang Fest, and Longding Fest to boost tourism and provide opportunities for youth.
The Speaker called upon the younger generation to learn traditional songs and dances from elders to preserve and promote their heritage.
Lowang, in his address, noted that Tirap celebrates several major indigenous festivals, including Worang Juku, Pongtu Kuh, Chalo Loku, Hoju Kuhwa, and Ronghuan Kuhwa. He called for celebrating them collectively on a common platform to attract tourists and promote unity.
The festival showcased traditional dances, songs, and cultural presentations.
Pangnye Khoisia narrated the Ronghuan mythology, explaining that the festival is celebrated after the millet harvest as a prayer for prosperity and abundance.
Among others, Tirap ZPC Chathong Lowang, DC Techu Aran, SP Aditya, HoDs, Chief, PRIs and other dignitaries attended the event. (DIPRO)