SENAPATI, Jan 5: Tungjoy (Veymai) village in Senapati district celebrated its annual Glory Day 2026 under the motto “Avei Atro (Glory)” with traditional fervour and cultural splendour on Sunday and Monday. The two-day festival commenced on January 4 and concluded on January 5.
The celebration is observed annually to give thanks to the Almighty God for His blessings upon the people and the community.
The inaugural function was graced by Timikha Koza, President of the Tenyimi People’s Organization (TPO), as the chief guest, while Veziihii Keyho, President of the Chakhesang Public Organization (CPO), attended as the guest of honour.
Welcoming the gathering, event chairman Th Daniel stated that Tungjoy Glory Day, locally known as Veymai Teithe, is traditionally celebrated every year on January 4 and 5. He said the occasion serves as a reminder to reaffirm faith in eternal moral values such as equality, justice, virtue, goodness, simplicity and honesty, which are essential for the well-being of society and harmonious living.
Speaking as chief guest, TPO president Timikha Koza said the ten tribes under the Tenyimi umbrella share a common culture and identity and belong to one another as one people. Emphasising unity among the Tenyimi people, he cautioned against forces that seek to divide them. Highlighting the abundance of forests and water resources blessed upon the Tenyimi people, he stressed the need to preserve forests to ensure long-term water security. He concluded by appealing for unity, forgiveness and peaceful coexistence.
Addressing the gathering, guest of honour Veziihii Keyho lauded the villagers for preserving and promoting their rich cultural heritage through traditional festivals. He said the celebration glorifies God by remembering His unfailing love and blessings, while reflecting the community’s faith, history, identity and unity.
He described the traditional practice of senior members blessing villagers before the sowing of seeds as a deeply touching moment, noting that elders continue to remain the strength of future generations. Recalling how land disputes among neighbouring villages were amicably resolved in the past, Keyho urged the present generation to resolve differences peacefully. He also appreciated Tungjoy village for entering into friendship treaties with neighbouring villages in Nagaland, including Leshemi, Lashumi and Zapami.
Keyho further advised students and youth to pursue their ambitions with integrity without forgetting their roots, and urged elders and leaders to lead by righteous example.
Cultural programmes marked the first day of the festival, featuring traditional practices such as cotton spinning, yahooing and work chants.
The second day, January 5, continued with activities aimed at preserving indigenous culture. Competitions including folk song, jaw harp and war cry were organised. On the occasion, former Glory Day chairman S. Hrai Aloysius exhorted the people to live in unity and truth, and encouraged them to remain enthusiastic in celebrating Glory Day, describing it as a festival dedicated to praising the Creator.
The day was also significant as the oldest man in the village invoked and pronounced blessings for all the villagers, marking a solemn and meaningful conclusion to the celebration.
