The Angami Naga tribe, primarily residing in Nagaland with a few settlements in Manipur, is renowned for its rich cultural heritage and strong agricultural practices. They speak Tenyidie as their primary language, while Nagamese serves as a lingua franca. The tribe practices terrace and Jhum cultivation, with animal husbandry and craftsmanship being key aspects of their livelihood. Despite the influence of Christianity, their traditional festivals, especially Sekrenyi, continue to play a significant role in preserving their cultural identity.

The Angami tribe is defined by a deep respect for nature, strong community living, and a belief in working hard with dignity. They value honesty, courage, and keeping one’s word, reflecting their rich warrior heritage. Elders and traditions are highly respected, as they guide the community with wisdom passed down through generations. The Angami tribe has several cultural symbols and artifacts that reflect their identity, beliefs, and way of life. Spears, shields, and traditional wooden carvings are important symbols of courage and their historic warrior culture.

Sekrenyi (also known as Phousanyi) is the main festival of the Angami Naga community, primarily celebrated by the Southern Angamis in December and by the Western and Northern Angamis in February. Today, it is commonly observed by all Angamis on February 25th. Sekrenyi marks the beginning of the lunar year and is a time for praying for prosperity and abundance. The festival is viewed as a process of purification for both body and soul, helping participants renew and make themselves holy.

Traditionally, Sekrenyi marks the transition from boyhood to adulthood, especially for young men. The festival is filled with feasting, singing, and the display of cultural attire and adornments. One key part of the celebration is Thekra Hie, during which village youth gather in peer groups to enjoy rice beer and meat while singing traditional songs.

Rituals performed during Sekrenyi include Kizie, Zumho, and Dzuseva, all aimed at purification. Participants also wear new shawls called mhoushü and Lohe. Major events such as hunting, gate-pulling (Kharu), bridge-pulling (Pe), and inter-village ceremonies (Kidakinyi, Vitho) take place in the later part of the festival. During this period, villagers abstain from agricultural work, a practice known as penyie.