Kohima: The Angami community gathered at Khuochiezie, Kohima, on September 11 to observe the traditional Khoupfhünyi festival. Organized by the Angami Women Organisation, the event celebrated the well-being and prosperity of women and girls. It remains a day for feasting and communal unity.
Minister for Women Resources Development and Horticulture Salhoutuonuo Kruse attended as the special guest. She praised the effort to bring the community together for the first time. Kruse supported a proposal to name the day a restricted holiday on the state calendar. This recognition would foster cooperation among the Angami people.
The festival honors the girl child through traditional food exchanges, songs, and games. While modern life has changed some rituals since the community adopted Christianity, the spirit of sharing persists. Kruse released the publication Cultural Footprints: Give to Gain during the event. She urged the community to document their customs before they disappear. Preserving this heritage helps boost tourism and future livelihoods.
Angami Public Organisation president Thejao Vihienuo confirmed the group set August 28 as the official date for Khoupfhünyi Day. He plans to lobby the state government to formalize this holiday status. Kruse expressed hope for the event's future impact. “Let this festival strengthen the bonds of unity, friendship and brotherhood among our community and beyond,” she said.
Women from all four Angami ranges attended the gathering. Each group brought home-cooked traditional dishes to share with one another. This exchange reinforced the core values of the day.
Comments