Participating group during the ‘Culture Connect’ held as part of Moatsü festival at the Stone Sculpture Garden, NEZCC, Diphupar on May 2. (Morung Photo)
Morung Express News
Chümoukedima | May 3
The Ao Youth Forum Diphupar in collaboration with the North East Zone Cultural Centre (NEZCC) hosted a first of its kind ‘Culture Connect’ as part of Moatsü, the premier festival of the Ao Naga community. Held under the theme ‘The Hills Resonate,’ it showcased the vibrancy of the different Naga communities living under one roof in Diphupar.
The event was graced by veteran statesman Dr SC Jamir, as the special guest, along with a number of Naga dignitaries as honoured guests which was held at the Stone Sculpture Garden, NEZCC, Diphupar on May 2.
Extending Moatsü greetings to the community, CL John, Minister for Environment, Forest & Climate Change and Village Guards, emphasised the need to eradicate tribalism. He urged Diphupar to serve as a model for unity among the Nagas, citing its peaceful coexistence of diverse communities.
Reflecting on his pre-election pledge, the Minister reaffirmed his commitment to eliminating factional divisions and stated that Nagaland’s constitution is now free from clan-based biases. He credited the democratic process for facilitating capable leadership and called upon citizens to continue championing unity under the banner of “Nagaland for Christ.”
He proposed that the village be renamed “Naga Unity Village” or “Naga Common Platform” to reflect the diverse community of residents, which includes bureaucrats, political leaders, pastors, educators, and influential figures from various fields.
Encouraging Diphupar to lead by example, the Minister urged the community to raise awareness and inspire others across Nagaland to embrace harmony and environmental conservation.
Kuzholuzo Nienu (Azo), MLA and Leader of the Naga People’s Front (NPF) Legislature Party, also delivered a greeting message. Thanking the Lord for the occasion, he stressed the importance of cultural connection in preserving traditional values.
He reiterated the urgent need for a united understanding among tribes and warned that unchecked tribalism threatens the future of Nagaland’s society. Azo called for a realignment of values, arguing that while traditional songs, attire, and dances are essential, true Naga identity is rooted in honesty, unity, hard work, and God-fearing principles, qualities he lamented were fading.
“We have lost our way to God, placing our activities above Him. Everything is diminishing because of that,” he remarked, urging a renewed focus on faith and spirituality.
He also reflected on negative changes in the cultural landscape, citing abduction and extortion as foreign influences corroding society. Commending theyouth forum for their stand against extortion, Azo called on all tribes to intensify unity efforts, echoing the Village Council Chairman’s description of Diphupar as “Mini Nagaland”—a place where various communities live together free from discrimination.
He encouraged all Nagas to transcend divisions and collectively build a harmonious and prosperous future, upholding the vision of a united Nagaland.
Dr Tseilhoutuo Ato Rhütso, MLA and Chairman of the District Planning and Development Board (DPDB) Kohima, also shared a message. Speaking on the theme ‘Cultural Connect,’ he highlighted that culture is not solely reflected through attire, but also in traditions and habits passed down through generations. He underscored the need to preserve these intangible cultural elements as vital expressions of identity.
Y Mhonbemo Humtsoe (NCS retired), MLA and Chairman of DPDB Wokha, offered words of encouragement and called upon the Ao community to embrace their roles as cultural pioneers, contributing towards a stronger and more united Nagaland.
The programme began with an opening prayer by Pastor Jacob Achumi of Sumi Baptist Church, Diphupar, and blessings from Imti Imsong, Tir, Diphupar Ao Senso Telongjem. P Alemba Lemtur from the Ao Youth Forum Diphupar delivered the keynote address, while Ghuzui Shohe, Chairman of the Diphupar Village Council, delivered a solidarity message.
The event featured a ‘Culture Connect’ presentation by Dreamz Unlimited. A message from PHED Minister Jacob Zhimomi was also read out during the programme. Cultural presentations were showcased by the Diphupar Angami Community, Rongmei Community Diphupar, Sümi Community Diphupar, Tangkhul Ngarumlong Diphupar, Lotha Community Diphupar, Eastern Nagaland People’s Union Diphupar Area, Rengma Community Diphupar, Chakhesang Community Diphupar, and Diphupar Ao Senso Telongjem.
