‘Be vigilant in maintaining peace and integrity’

P Dako Phom

Kohima, June 6 (MExN): The Phom Union Kohima (PUK) hosted the celebration of 71st Phom Day 2023 under the theme ‘Phom Day and its impact on Phom society’ with P Dako Phom, former parliamentary secretary as the keynote speaker on June 6.

Addressing the gathering at Kohima Phom Baptist Church, P Dako Phom highlighted how this occasion, celebrated by the Phom community for the past seven decades, has helped clarify their identity and history.

The keynote speaker remarked that while other tribes have embraced peace through the gospel, for the Phom tribe, it was more of an imposition. Therefore, he urged the people to be vigilant in maintaining peace and integrity and challenged the tribal not to take this day for granted.

He also proposed that efforts be made to promote Phom literature and its unique tales to keep the younger generations aware, and further, suggested the establishment of a peace award for peace makers.

PUK President Dr S Manyaü shared greetings and later handed over certificate and cash award to HSLC topper Lungshen C Ailly (Top 18 HSLC Examination 2023) from Don Bosco Higher Secondary School, Kohima. Ongshen Phom recited Phom Day poetry. The occasion was also marked by special song and modern song. Manlam M. Chungpang scored as pianist for the programme. Rev. Phomlee Van, Pastor, KPBC led prayer for Phom tribe. C. Manthah Phom, Joint Secretary, PUK chaired the programme while vote of thanks was proposed by Imti Mokholee Phom, Vice president PUK.

June 6 is observed as Phom Day every year by Phom Nagas in remembrance of June 6, 1952 when the elders of the Phom tribe made a pledge to stop the practice of head hunting and to live in peace with one another. In 1952, a stone pillar was erected having imprinted a vow in a monument which reads "June 6 1952 Phom Day to witness this day wherein all Phoms have pledged themselves to be peaceful and loyal to government."