Naga Day observed in Shillong
Morung Express News
Shillong | May 6
Nagas in Shillong, on May 6, fraternised over music and cultural extravaganzas as they congregated for the first ever ‘Naga Day cum Cultural Extravaganza’ at U Soso Tham Auditorium, State Central Library Shillong.
The event was organised by Naga Elders’ Forum Shillong (NEFS) with the objective to bring all Nagas to a common platform to share oneness and unity, the Forum President Tolu Chophy informed in his welcome address.
The event was graced by Secretary, North East Council, Ramnganing Muivah IAS and Secretary, Land Resources, Kohima, Y Kikheto Sema IAS as the chief guest and guest of honour respectively.
Addressing a jam-packed auditorium, Ramnganing called upon Naga people in Shillong to be ambassadors of their respective communities and Nagaland.
“Khasis are one of the finest people and we have a lot to learn from them,” he said and advised the youngsters to be respectful to the local people by conducting themselves properly.
Visibly impressed with the organization of the programme, he described it as a “meeting of the ancient with modern” since the performances comprised of traditions and modern talents.
Despite being hit by several waves having devastating effect, the Naga cultural renaissance remained, Ramnganing said further maintaining that the motifs and prints of Naga traditional attires were “biographical account of the wearer” since it depicted the way of life.
He also likened it to “early script of the Nagas.”
“Be diligent, industrious, honest and hardworking which were the foundations of the Naga social life,” Ramnganing urged youngsters.
Y. Kikheto Sema IAS, in his address, lauded NEFS for organizing the programme and bringing Nagas together despite the geographical and topographical divides.
Naga people, despite inhabiting different locations, should remain united and spread peace and tranquillity not only within them but also with the people of northeast, he said.
Stating that culture was the pillar of any society, Kikheto challenged the youngsters to know about it and be rooted in it.
“Wise people do not abandon their culture but preserve it. But preservation does not mean disrespecting other culture,” he added.
Kikheto said people should work towards positive transformation of culture and also called for revival of the good values and culture which the forefathers practised.
He said that the need of the hour for the Naga people was to forgive and forget each others’ mistakes and surge ahead in unity.
“Nagas are a small family and we should not make it smaller. We cannot afford to create enmity within ourselves or with neighbours,” Kikheto said. “Be living examples to other parts of the country.”
Munish Singh, Regional Officer, Indian Council for Cultural Relations and Mhonbemo Shitiri, first president of NEFS also addressed the gathering.
The programme saw impressive performances from renowned artists including Nise Meruno and Zowe Madrigal, Guru Reuben Mashangva, Tetseo Sisters, Abiogenesis, Patkai Choir, Chonchon, Nimshimphy and Lhouvirielie Usou.
The Liangmei Cultural Club and Phom Traditional Dance Troupe also performed traditional pieces during the programme.
