Moatsu Festival

The Ao tribe of Nagaland celebrates Moatsu on 1st week of May, every year. There are many rituals in this period. After sowing, Aos observe Moatsu. The period of enjoyment and recreation for Aos after sowing seeds, burning jungles, clearing fields, wells – Tsubu, construction & repairs. Everyone relaxes after hustle during festival that stretches for a week.

Dance, songs remain a main attraction of Moatsu Festival. Sangpangtu – lighting up of a big fire, while having an awesome meal with attire, a symbolic celebration at Moatsu. A person who lives under the guidance of the Almighty does forecast on evil and good days that may come in the way of Aos.

Rituals and Customs:

There is a chain of custom practiced from generations by Aos, generally it is being practiced from their forefather’s time. Rice beer and quality meat is enjoyed on Moatsu. Women adorn attire with fine jewellery, join men in dances, drink, eat, & sing warrior songs. Yong folks are encouraged to be strong & heroic, to be protective from enemies since their fore-fathers have done head hunting in past.

Main aim of the festival:

The chief aim behind the celebration of Moatsu Festival is to invoke God’s blessings after the completion of activities like ploughing of new and old patches [Jhum kheti], cleaning of wells (Tsubu), construction and repair of the house by elders of the Village Council, Putu Menden.