Advisor TaFMA, Theja Meru, Project Director for TaFMA, Hovithal Sothu and others during the press briefing held in Doyang on April 17. (Morung Photo)
Morung Express News
Kohima | April 17
In a major boost for music tourism in the state, Acoustic Club Wokha in collaboration with Task Force for Music & Arts (TaFMA) will be presenting “Doyang Rhythms: music by the lake” at the Doyang Tourist Resort Area on April 23 and 24 respectively.
Announcing this today at a press briefing held in the setting of the stunning surroundings of Doyang, Advisor TaFMA, Theja Meru noted that, “Doyang is a jewel in the crown of Nagaland and “Doyang Rhythms: music by the lake” is a small beginning to tell the world of this treasure that Nagaland has.” He asserted that there is huge potential in economic activity and opportunities for Naga musicians and that, “music festivals and musicians contribute substantially to a local economy and music is our best brand ambassadors and soft power.”
In this regard, he cited the world-famous electronic music festival Tomorrowland, Belgium that employs 12,000 people and directly feeds the local economy with about $120 million annually. He also said BTS contributed $4.65 Billion to South Korea’s economy in 2019 wherein an estimated 8,00,000 tourists reportedly chose South Korea as their travel destination because of BTS.
Hornbill Music Festival 2019 that had participation from countries like UK, Indonesia, Hungary, South Korea involving more than 50 bands spread across 15 venues, 500 musicians and 1,30,000 in attendance also had an economic impact of 35 million rupees, he said.
Meanwhile, according to the UN World Tourism Organisation, it is estimated that 50 million Indian tourists travelled abroad in 2019 and spent $23 billion. Times of India, he further expressed, estimates that Indian tourist will spend $45 billion by 2022.
In this regard, he pointed out that if Nagaland can attract 1% of 50 million outbound Indian tourist, the economic impact would be Rs 3,375 crores. Reiterating his belief in the potential that Nagaland has in this regard, he stated hope that it will blossom into a big festival in the years to come and like other music festivals, contribute to local economy and growth of the arts industry in a big way.
Project Director for TaFMA, Hovithal Sothu noted that all these initiatives have birthed out of a lot of thoughts from the Advisor while stating excitement for the lakeside music. He commended Acoustic Club, the president of the Land Owners’ Union and Mhademo Enni for the roles they have played in making it possible.
President of Acoustic Club, Nzanbemo Patton expressed that it is the dream of all the musicians in Wokha to have such an event while exuding hope that Wokha will go on to become a music hub and a career for many more young generation. In view of the COVID-19 situation, he said they will be following all the protocols and are looking at a maximum audience of 150-200 people.
District Partner & Coordinator, TaFMA, Mhademo Enni stated his appreciation for TaFMA, while expressing that it has really gone to the grassroots level by way of not only giving instruments but also trainings and capacity buildings. On the upcoming event, he said, “this is a dream come true for music lovers in Wokha.”
Rhanbemo Odyuo, President of the Land Owners’ Union reiterated that Doyang is a hotspot for tourism and is very important particularly because it is also the capital of amur falcons. Highlighting that there is so much scope for eco-tourism, he said many more festivals can be organized there such as “fish festival’ among others.
Tickets for the “Doyang Rhythms: music by the lake” is priced at Rs1500 per night for each table which can accommodate four persons. Out of 40 available tables, 14 have been booked so far. The cost excludes food and accommodation. The camping site is also being arranged with proper security from the district administration, STRF, Police Department from Outpost Doyang for safety and security concerns. Other facilities such as tent renting, food stalls, washrooms, and other essentials are already in place for the event.
There will be thermal screening while those coming are requested to wear mask and bring their own hand sanitizers as responsible citizens.
