KOHIMA, April 13 (MExN): Kohima College today celebrated its 56th Cultural cum Literary Day under the theme “Celebrating Ethnicity & Diversity,” with a day-long series of performances and competitions that highlighted the rich cultural traditions and intellectual talents of students.
The event was chaired by Chalienuo Metha, a 2nd semester student, and began with a welcome address by Shungthai Angh, Cultural Secretary of the Kohima College Students’ Council (KCSC), followed by a benediction from Associate Professor Tenoseno Angami, Department of History.
Delivering the keynote as Guest of Honour, Dr. Meyisangla Longkumer, Joint Director of the Department of Tribal Affairs, Government of Nagaland, lauded the celebration of diversity and encouraged students to “cultivate empathy and continue learning to compete globally.” She also donated Rs. 50,000 to the Kohima College Students’ Council Fund.
A series of competitive events showcased the vibrancy of indigenous expression. The War Cry Competition, judged by Dr. Keduolhoulie Belho and Mhalevolie Solo, brought to life traditional calls from the Angami, Phom, Sumi, and Chakhesang tribes.
In the Debate Competition, adjudicated by Temjeninla Longchari, Dr. Neikehienuo Mepfuo, and Zavikhoto Phinyo, students argued for and against the motion “In today’s competitive job market, college degree is an indispensable criterion for securing a disputable position.”
Musical traditions were revived in the Folk Song Competition, judged by Medongulie Tsiekhanuo, Dr. Thoshusie Katiry, and Dr. Medongunuo Ngone, with performances from the Sangtam, Chakhesang, Pochury, and Yimkhiung communities.
Other events included the Folk Dance Competition, judged by Temjenninla Longchari, Abeni Zuchamo, and Mhasivilie Zhole, and the Extempore Speech Competition, evaluated by Dr. Azhanuo Peki, Dr. Petevino Chase, and Khrielieü Zumvu.
An Ethnic Visual Show featured traditional attire from 17 tribes and communities, while the Signature Dish Competition, judged by Dr. Longkumer, Dr. Peki, and Khriezenuo Angami, offered a culinary tour of indigenous flavors.
Winners of various competitions were also announced. Jongtie P Khiamniungan won the Painting Competition, while Jetei S took first in Essay Writing. In the Poetry section, Samlam clinched the top prize. Mülünielü Sakhamo won the Debate, and Opeichipen Chang secured first in the Extempore Speech. Senyamo Kath took the War Cry title, Sangtam Union led the Folk Song category, Zeliang Union triumphed in Folk Dance, and Lotha Union won the Signature Dish contest.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Assistant Cultural Secretary Sitenlo Kath and a closing prayer by Evangelical Union President Devo Thisa.
The event, organised by the Mass Media Cell and the Kohima College Students’ Council, served as a vibrant reminder of the institution’s commitment to cultural preservation and student-led creativity.
