The picturesque Nungou Aze, a Katho constituent village in Ukhrul assembly constituency, has transformed into a hive of activity as it plays host to the 25th Katho Katamnao Long (KKL) General Conference cum Sports Meet 2024. The air is filled with excitement as community members, adorned in vibrant traditional attire, gather for this cultural and sports extravaganza.
Against the backdrop of the village’s scenic beauty, the event kicked off with a grand inauguration on January 24, showcasing the rich heritage of the Katho region.
Nungou Aze, located 50 km away from Ukhrul town, is home to about 220 residents and 38 houses. The village is well-known for its production of bananas and Naga king chilies, making it a significant area in the region’s agricultural industry.
Held under the theme of ‘Heritage of Oneness’, the event was inaugurated by Wungnaoyung Sayai, the CAO of Wung Tangkhul Region (WTR) as the chief guest, while Ngazipmi Chahong, a Geologist from the Geological Survey of India (GSI), was the guest of honour.
The ceremony began with the hoisting of the KKL flag by Sayai, in the presence of the KKL president Mashungmi Zingkhai, KKL officials, and other distinguished guests. The event commemorating a week-long celebration of Katho culture, sports, and solidarity will continue till January 29.
Speaking at the occasion, Sayai addressed the audience and expressed his delight at the fact that a small village like Nungou Aze was given the opportunity to host this event. He commended the decision, stating that it was a step in the right direction and would pave the way for the development of backward villages in the region.
He also emphasized the need for equal development in all villages, stating that it was crucial for the collective growth of the Katho region. He called upon the youth to come together and work towards the common goal of developing the region.
Sayai went on to state that the region has high hope from the Katho youths and their potential to become the future pillars of society.
He urged them to utilize this platform to learn important values such as discipline, teamwork, and leadership, rather than simply seeing it as a time for fun and entertainment.
Moreover, Sayai encouraged the young participants to focus on raising the standards of society and to fulfill their responsibilities as citizens. He reminded them that they had the power to shape the future of their communities and stressed the importance of using this power wisely.
During his speech, Chahong brought attention to the fundamental principles that serve as the backbone of society, which are vital for the progress and advancement of a community.
He highlighted the significance of various factors such as family, spirituality, education, governance, media, and business. Chahong stressed the crucial role these pillars play in shaping society and promoting its overall growth.
Chahong then appealed for unity and harmony among individuals in promoting these pillars of society. He encouraged the community to support and collaborate with one another in order to achieve success.
According to Chahong, by aligning the efforts of the people and collectively supporting these key pillars, the Katho region can flourish and thrive as a well-developed and prosperous area.
He believed that the success of the society depends on the collaboration and cooperation of its members, and the collective effort towards building a strong foundation.
In his presidential address, Zingkhai highlighted the primary goal of KKL to develop human resources rather than solely focusing on materialistic growth. He urged the youth to prioritize their personal and professional growth, as this would ultimately lead to the advancement of society as a whole.
He said that the region has rich culture and traditions passed down through generations, and stressed the significance of preserving and reviving these age-old customs and beliefs in shaping the community’s identity.
Zingkhai encouraged the community to come together and utilize their unique talents and resources for the progress and prosperity of the Katho region. He emphasized the need for unity and collaboration in achieving this goal. He appealed to each individual to contribute with diverse skills for the growth of the community.
As part the Katho General Conference, AS. Nganaomi, a pioneer of KKL, unveiled the KKL monolith. He related the journey of the students’ organisation and disclosed that the organisation was established in 1981-82.
“Seven of us, then all young men, came together to establish the Katho Katamnao Long with the purpose of preserving and elevating our identity and culture,” he said. He exhorted the younger generation to take the goals and principles of KKL to a higher ground.
The ensuing days will witness an array of exciting activities and competitions for all to participate in. This diverse event will feature traditional sports such as tug of war, marathon, football, and volleyball, as well as cultural performances including Hao Laa and Pheichak.
Additionally, there will be a variety of intellectual contests such as quizzes, extempore speeches, choreography showcases, debates, and discussions centered around the development of the Katho region.
Musical performances from Oking Band, Thangmeiso Shinglai, Ningshang Ngakang, Yuileichan Mahongnao, Yarshim Wungsek, Winso Chamroy, Pingmeiso Khapai, and Reitimla Khapai will also enthrall the crowd during this event.
K Timothy Zimik, retired IRS and Principal Chief Commissioner of Income Tax, and Dr. Soreingam Kasomhung, Assistant Professor at JNIMS Hospital in Imphal, will attend the cultural session, which will take place on January 28, as the chief guest and guest of honor.
On January 29, Ukhrul MLA Ram Muivah and Remember Khapai, proprietor of Messenger Sound, will grace the valedictory function as the chief guest and guest of honor, respectively.
The Katho General Conference has drawn 17 units, out of the 22 units and villages under the KKL. A total of 815 delegates are taking part in the event.
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