TOKHU EMONG 

It is the priest who gives the signal for the start of the festival. He accompanied by aids (Yinga) along with baskets goes round the village collecting unhusked rice from every home when offering is made. The priest takes a handful of it, showers prayers and it is only after this that he puts the contribution in his basket. The beliefs was that the more generous the contribution, the more yield one would get during harvest but if any one refuses to contribute, he would lead a pauper’s life. So none would dare to refuse contribution for fear of that. A portion of the collection is used to buy a pig and the rest is used for making rice-beer. 

The big is killed and cut and is distributed to the contributors. This rituals is considered as contributing factor to general prosperity. 

Before the commencement of the festival, if any stranger happens to be in the village, he gets trwo options; to leave the village (past beyond the village gate) before sunset or to stay there in the village until the festival is over. He however, enjoys the warm hospitality of the villagers. 

This festival also provide the occasion to offer prayers for the departed souls. The family who lost any member during the year performs his/her last rites. The people remain in the village till the last rites are performed. 

Young boys and girls engaged during the year are happily married after Tokhu. It is also the time for renovating the village gate, cleaning wells and repairing houses. 

Tokhu Emong is also a festival of thanksgiving, sharing and reconciliation but the most beautiful aspect of this festival is that past rancours are forgiven, new ties are formed and bonds of closer intimacy are formed. 

Wild cries of joy-echo over the green hills and narrow valleys. One feels as if the stones have been given tongue to say ‘Oh farmers, tender your fields with love and care’