Various cultural troupes performing during the ‘Tribal Festival’ under the theme ‘Igniting cultural traditions’ as part of Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav on October 26 in Kohima. (Morung Photo)
Our Correspondent
Kohima | October 26
The Department of Art & Culture, Nagaland organized ‘Tribal Festival’ under the theme ‘Igniting cultural traditions’ as part of Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav on October 26 in Kohima. It was graced by H Khehovi Yepthomi, Advisor, Art & Culture and Tourism, Government of Nagaland as the special guest.
Speaking on the occasion, the advisor stressed on the need to promote and preserve the diverse culture of the Nagas.
He said that it is the responsibility for all to promote and preserve the rich culture and traditions to maintain our identity. “If we preserve our culture, our identity will stay intact,” he asserted.
Stating that the Government of Nagaland introduced Hornbill Festival to promote culture and traditions of the Nagas, he called to “Make our culture our way of life and take it to future generation.” He stressed on the need to build a closer and stronger relationship with one another through cultural activities and called upon the people to stay united for a peaceful and harmonious society. “Spread love wherever you go,” he urged.
Adela Moa, Director, Art & Culture, Nagaland in the concluding remark thanked the 15 cultural troupes for displaying their rich cultural dances and songs in the festival.
“As society progresses, observance of our cultural traditions also goes through much changes. At the same time it is an undeniable fact that our culture is our identity. If we lose it, our uniqueness also goes away,” Adela stated.
She added that over the years, the Department of Art & Culture has been actively involved and in not only the preservation, but also the promotion of our cultural heritage. In line with this, the department came out with the idea to observe tribal festival, under the theme “Igniting Cultural Traditions” with the involvement of the cultural troupes, she added.
Sunep Lemtur, Recipient of Governor’s Award (Music) 2021 also made a special appearance. Welcome address was delivered by Athel O Lotha, Secretary to Department of Art & Culture, Government of Nagaland.
This tribal festival witnessed the participation of 15 cultural troupes, which included: Angami- (Kevira Cultural Troupe, Kohima village); Ao- (Waromong Cultural Troupe, Kohima); Chakhesang- (Dzulhami Cultural Troupe, Kohima); Chang- (Chang Cultural Troupe, Kohima); Khiamniungan- (Khiamniungan Cultural Troupe, Kohima); Konyak- (Konyak Cultural Troupe, Kohima); Lotha- (Lotha Yachummaro Cultural Group, Kohima); Phom- (Phom Cultural Troupe, Kohima); Pochury- (Pochury Cultural Troupe, Kohima); Rengma- (Tesophenvu Cultural Troupe), Kohima; Sangtam- (Sangtam Cultural Troupe, Kohima); Sumi- (Shena Old Cultural Club, Kohima); Tikhir- (Tikhir Cultural Troupe, Kohima); Yimkhiung- (Yimkhiung Bern Cultural Group, Kohima); and Zeliang- (Benreu Students’ Union Kohima); Sumi- (Shena Old Cultural Club, Kohima); Tikhir- (Tikhir Cultural Troupe, Kohima); Yimkhiung- (Yimkhiung Bern Cultural Group, Kohima); and Zeliang- (Benreu Students’ Union Kohima).
