Kohima: The Pochury Students’ Union gathered at Matikhrü village on September 6 to mark the 66th Pochury Black Day. Locals arrived at Sacred Freedom Park at 6:30 am to lay wreaths for those they call martyrs. Matikhrü Students’ Union president Tv. Sievitho Kathe led the solemn start to the day.
A formal service followed at Matikhrü Baptist Church, led by PSU general secretary Tv. Tsiarhotho Thsangkhure. Rev. Rümatho Nyusou, Executive Secretary of the Pochury Baptist Church Council, served as the guest speaker. He addressed the crowd on the theme of finding hope in divine love. He told attendees, "The memories of tragedy and sacrifice remained painful, but faith in God’s unfailing love could provide strength, healing and renewed hope."
The event included a moment of silence and a musical performance titled Mükü Mara Wa Mavi 1960 by Akho Thyorr and Sarah Perry. PSU president Tv. Rongley Leyri outlined the history of the day. Leaders from the Pochury Hoho and the Pochury Mothers’ Association also delivered messages of solidarity. The union stressed that the annual event keeps their history alive and encourages a future built on faith and peace.
Sports will extend the remembrance period later this month. The 12th edition of the Pochury Black Day Memorial Cup runs from September 15 to 24 at Matikhrü. Sixteen teams will compete for a top prize of Rs 1 lakh, a trophy, and medals. The runner-up takes home Rs 70,000, while the two losing semi-finalists receive Rs 30,000 each. Officials will also distribute individual awards for top defenders, goalkeepers, and scorers to promote discipline and fellowship among the youth.
Updated at 7th September 2026 at 1:48pm
The memorial service included several additional participants who helped lead the proceedings. Thuchu Trakha, the Matikhrü village council chairman, delivered the welcome address. Rhovitho Nyusou, pastor of Matikhrü Baptist Church, gave the invocation, while Methuselah Pojar, the local RPC prayer chairman, led the offertory prayer. The Women’s Society of Matikhrü performed a special song, Hopeson Pojar read scripture, and Eneikhoteluo Pojar closed the service with a benediction. PSU vice president Chingusie Poji offered the vote of thanks.
The full theme for the event was titled, From Tragedy to Promise: Finding Hope in God’s Unfailing Love. Rev. Nyusou also tasked the youth with honoring the pioneers by maintaining unity and civic responsibility.
Tournament officials announced expanded award categories for the upcoming Memorial Cup. Beyond the top scorers and defenders, the committee will present awards for the Most Promising Player and the Player of the Tournament. Winning teams will receive citations along with their cash prizes and trophies.
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