Morung Express News
Kohima | May 10
Coloridos Fest 2016, the 14th Annual Cultural Day of the Post Graduate Students’ Union (PGSU), Nagaland University, Kohima Campus was held on May 10 at State Academy Hall, Kohima. With the theme ‘Celebrating Ethnicity’, the fest was graced by Prof. Pardeshi Lal, Pro- Vice Chancellor, NU, Meriema as the guest of honour and MK Mero, Commissioner and Secretary, Veterinary and Animal Husbandry as the chief guest.
While speaking on the celebration of ethnicity, Prof. Lal talked about certain values of Naga heritage such as the hospitable nature of Nagas and the traditional educational institutions called Morung. Prof. Lal stated that such values gives glory to the society and needs to be preserved. The delivery of justice with customary laws was another important aspect that Prof. Lal pointed out, which keeps the integrity of the tribe intact. Moreover the respect that Naga society has for women is a particular feature that is difficult to find in other societies, asserted Prof. Lal.
Appreciating the PGSU for initiating efforts to preserve the rich culture of the Nagas, M K Mero asserted that ethnicity still have a stronghold in the Naga society even in the present context. Defined as a cultural background of a people, Mero mentioned that till today Nagas in their societies are known by their tribal identity. With the numerous tribes in the Naga society which can sometimes create divisions and rifts Mero said, “We need to stress on unity and preserve our ethnic culture.” And since the outside world knows the Nagas as Nagas and not their tribes, the need to promote tolerance and the unique Naga culture was further highlighted and the students were encouraged to take pride of their rich heritage.
Taking examples of great countries like the US and emerging country like Nigeria which has developed over the years because of the contribution of the many ethnic groups working together as a single nation and building the strength to tolerate each other, Mero also urged the students to promote unity and tolerance to build the Naga society.
“We have a common shared history irrespective of our tribes,” said Mero who also stressed on the need to preserve the good traditions, modernization of traditions and to give up on the negative aspects. Mero also expressed concern over the growing unemployment problem in Nagaland and urged the young students to find ways to create avenues for the future.
In the formal session, folk songs, dances and plays were performed by the Tenyimia Post Graduate Students’ Union, Sumi Post Graduate Union and Chakhesang Students’ Union. The session was followed by a cultural vaganza of traditional attire show, modern ethnic wear and folk song competition.
