A group presenting a folk song during the Lotha Language Day celebration on May 1 at Wokha. (Morung Photo)
Lotha Academy observes Lotha Language Day
Morung Express News
Wokha | May 1
The Lotha Academy celebrated Lotha Language Day with at the Don Bosco Youth Centre, Wokha, on 1 May, with the aim to preserve and promote the Lotha language and cultural identity. The event was graced by Orenthung Patton, President, Lotha Officers Association, as the special guest.
Addressing the gathering, Orenthung reminisced about the migration of the Lotha people and underscored the role of language as a unifying thread of identity. He remarked, “Language is the only strong thread connecting our community,” and emphasised that speaking one’s mother tongue affirms cultural identity.
Citing the progress of Tenyidie up to the doctoral level, he expressed concern over the lack of a recognised third language in Nagaland, which has led to missed employment opportunities in government sectors such as the postal service and All India Radio. He highlighted ongoing governmental efforts to formally recognise a third language in the state, which could create new prospects for the Nagas.
He urged church leaders to collaborate with the Lotha Academy, acknowledging their influential role in the community. He cited the late Rev NT Murry’s efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic as an example of meaningful engagement, especially in translating vital information. Stressing the importance of integrating technology and artificial intelligence with language preservation, he reiterated that language remains central to identity, particularly in the digital age. He also encouraged beginning language instruction at Sunday schools and called on the Lotha Academy to collaborate and seek support for its initiatives.
Lirhonthung E. Kithan, President, Lotha Students’ Union, also addressed the event, describing language as an essential component of cultural and personal identity. He voiced concern over inconsistencies caused by the existence of multiple Lotha dictionaries, which have led to confusion in both spoken and written forms, especially among students. He called for the adoption of a standardised version of the language and encouraged everyone, especially the youth, to use Lotha in daily life.
Thungjamo Tsanglao, Chairman, Lotha Literature Committee, stressed that mastering one’s language requires genuine effort. He lamented that it is unfortunate and embarrassing when individuals are unable to speak or write in their native tongue, stating that it is the responsibility of every Lotha to engage actively in learning the language, as it is foundational to identity.
Dr N Janbemo Humtsoe, Organising Member, highlighted the significance of the day, stating that Lotha Language Day would henceforth be observed annually on 1 May to celebrate the rich heritage and linguistic traditions of the Lotha people. He detailed the simultaneous observances held in Kohima and Dimapur by respective Lotha organisations. He also underscored the need for inclusion of the Lotha language at the degree level, noting that while the subject is taught up to Class 12, there remains a long-standing desire to introduce it at the degree level.
He noted that the Lotha Academy is requesting with Nagaland University to introduce a Lotha language programme at the undergraduate level, in line with the National Education Policy which prioritises mother tongue education.
“Language is our oldest ancestor,” he added, “When we speak in our language, we connect with our elders, our ancestors, and the vast traditional knowledge and values they have passed down.
A notable highlight of the event was the official release of Lotha Motsüran Ekhvürhyucho (Anthology of Lotha Prose) by the special guest.
The second session featured a folk song competition with enthusiastic participation from schools across Wokha District. PM Shri GHS Wokha Village emerged as the winner, followed by Isaiah Ability Higher Secondary School and Gilgamesh School in second and third places respectively.
