Niizota Swiiro addressing annual general session of Chakhesang Cultural Organization on May 3 in Kohima. (Morung Photo)
Our Correspondent
Kohima | May 3
The Chakhesang Cultural Organization (CCO) today held its annual general session at Red Cross Building Kohima with Niizota Swiiro, chairman, Nagaland Bamboo Development Agency (NBDA) as the guest speakers.
Addressing the gathering, Swiiro said that the Chakhesang culture is a rich tapestry of rituals, songs, attire, and traditions intricately woven into our history.
“Yet today, this heritage stands at risk of fading away. Without urgent and collective action, we may lose the very essence of who we are,” he said and called for the immediate documentation and preservation of the cultural legacy to safeguard its originality and ensure its survival for future generations.
He said that Christianity has brought profound blessings to the people, most importantly, the message of the Gospel and the promise of salvation through Jesus Christ. Alongside spiritual renewal, it also ushered in modernity and what was seen as “civilization.” However, its rise has also coincided with the gradual erasure of indigenous Naga knowledge and cultural practices, Swiiro said.
Many indigenous practices once central to our identity were deemed as “primitive” or “sinful,” an idea shaped by early missionary influences. The result? A growing disconnect between faith and culture.
He said that the weaving of faith with cultural identity is crucial.
“We can embrace Christianity while honouring the traditions that define us, he said and called for taking action “ because Preservation is no longer optional—it is crucial.”
We must record our culture and traditions in their full context with rigorous research ensuring accuracy for future generations before they are lost to globalization, he said.
Stressing on the need to document the culture and traditions, he said” To preserve is to honor. To document is to ensure our culture does not fade—but flourishes.”
We face the risk of losing the originality of our folk songs. While fusion songs are growing in popularity and certainly has their appeal, greater emphasis must be placed on preserving the authentic form of our folk songs, Swiiro said.
Since we live in close harmony with nature, now more than ever, we must realign our communities, awaken to our responsibilities, and return to our roots, he said.
He said that reviving the age-old traditions of economic self-dependence is not just a cultural necessity but a powerful step toward resilience and sustainability.
“We can also no longer ignore the urgent threat of climate change, which is already disrupting our traditional agricultural way of life. The time to act is now - by raising awareness, making conscious choices, and working together to protect our future and the legacy of our land,” he said.
Nagaland’s former minister Zachilhii Ringa Vadeo announced the new team of office bearers for the tenure 2025-27.
The new team will led by Kedoutsolhi Wetsah as president and Vethikhoyi Khamo as general secretary among the others.
Dr. Chotisuh Sazo, formers speaker Nagaland Legislative Assembly (NLA) read out of the resolution adopted at the session.
Chakhesang Public Organization (CPO) president Veziihii Keyho also delivered short speech and suggested the initiation of Chakhesang Cultural Day.
CCO joint secretary Neikhwezu Venuh read out general secretary report while vote of thanks was proposed by CCO finance secretary Lecho Krocha.
