TodayTools

Donate

About Moatsu

00 days

About Moatsu

Moatsu, or Moatsu Mong, is the big festival of the Ao Nagas of Nagaland. It is held from 1 to 3 May every year, after the fields are cleared and the seeds are sown, and it is a time to rest, pray and enjoy together.

The best known custom is Sangpangtu. A big fire is lit, and men and women sit around it in their finest dress. The best meat and rice beer are served, and people sing, tell stories and make friendly jokes late into the evening.

There are dances in traditional shawls and headgear, songs that praise the land and the ancestors, and games for the young. It is kept mainly in Mokokchung district, and Ao communities everywhere mark it.

How people celebrate Moatsu

  • Sangpangtu, sitting around a big fire
  • The best meat and rice beer shared
  • Folk songs and dances
  • Traditional shawls and headgear
  • Prayers for a good harvest

How to wish well

  • Wish Ao friends on 1 May or any day up to 3 May.
  • "Kuknalim", an Ao word of greeting and victory, adds a warm local touch.
  • Rest after hard work, a good harvest and joy with friends are good themes.

Questions about Moatsu

When is Moatsu?

Every year from 1 to 3 May.

Who celebrates Moatsu?

The Ao Nagas of Nagaland, mainly in Mokokchung district.

Why is Moatsu celebrated?

It is kept after the sowing season, to rest, give thanks and pray for a good harvest.

What is Sangpangtu?

The custom of lighting a big fire and sitting around it to share the best food and drink, songs and stories.

What does Kuknalim mean?

It is an Ao word used as a greeting. It is often taken to mean victory to the land.

Keep exploring

Related

Coming up next

    All festival wishes

    Donate