Nagaland's Angami Tribe celebrates Sekrenyi Festival

Kohima, Mar 16 (ANI): The Angami Tribe of Nagaland recently celebrated Sekrenyi Festival in Kohima with great enthusiasm.

Scores of Angami Nagas moved towards the venue for the celebration of the Sekrenyi festival, which is known as the festival of purification and provides an opportunity to the people to look back and see what good or bad things they have done. It is one of the most important festivals of the Angami Tribe of Nagaland.

"Sekrenyi is a festival of purification. But in today's age we celebrate it to remember the age-old tradition that we had. Because we the younger generation are not aware about all this. It is also significant to show our rich culture and get together with others and promote peace and unity," said Khrielivie Angami, a member of Angami Tribe.

Men and women, on the occasion, dress up in their traditional attires. Males carried head hunting spades and females carried baskets. They sang traditional songs and performed the daily activities of the Tribe during the fest. It was a great opportunity for visitors to sample the rich culture and traditions of the Angamis.

"This festival is very impressive we have stayed here for few days and have met so many people and it's great to meet them," said Vogt, a German tourist.

"Being a part of this festival, it has given me a good understanding of what Sekrenyi is all about and what I have seen is so vibrant that I am proud to be associated with something like this," Nise, a visitor.

Sports events were organized during the festival. A high jump competition was organized for the youth along with several other traditional games like wrestling and tug of war.

"It is very important to preserve the cultural practice of our forefathers so in order to preserve our culture identity and to have a common platform on the same day it is important to organize this festival every year," said Dr Viketoulie Angami, another member of Angami Tribe.

The festival falls in the Angami month of "Kezei" and it aims at bringing together all the different Tribes of Nagaland on one platform. (ANI)