Vice-Chancellor, Prof Jagadish K Patnaik and others during the celebration of Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas at Nagaland University, Lumami on November 22.
LUMAMI, NOVEMBER 23 (MExN): The Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas was celebrated at Nagaland University on November 22 at the I Ihoshe Kinimi Hall in Lumami. The event aimed to honour the tribal heritage and contributions, focusing on the pride and identity of tribal communities. Scholars, students, and dignitaries came together to highlight the significance of recognizing tribal voices.
A press release issued by Peter Ki, PRO, NU, Lumami stated that the program began with the Nagaland University Anthem, followed by an address from Professor Athungo Ovung, Director of Tribal Research Centre. He emphasized the challenges faced by tribal societies as they navigate both digital and traditional worlds. Dr Yamsani Srikanth, Assistant Professor at the Tribal Research Centre, delivered introductory remarks, stressing the need for elevating tribal communities within a society driven by elites. He applauded the Indian government for its efforts in ensuring tribal representation and recognition, particularly in acknowledging unsung tribal heroes and their environmental stewardship.
A key feature of the program was the screening of a documentary that highlighted the contributions of lesser-known tribal heroes from Northeast India. The event also included a prize distribution ceremony for an essay competition, presented by the Vice-Chancellor, Prof Jagadish K Patnaik, who spoke about the importance of reconnecting with tribal roots and protecting tribal identity from external influences.
He highlighted the rich diversity of Naga tribes and their unique traditions, emphasizing the need to safeguard these identities from external influences. Reflecting on the impact of colonialism, he noted how technological advancements had restructured society but underscored, “We should protect our culture and should not compromise our identity with anything.”
A folk song titled Lejole was performed by postgraduate students, adding a cultural dimension to the event. Prof Jangkhomang Guite, from the Department of History, in his keynote address, titled Cry of the Wilderness: Tribal Freedom Movements in Northeast India highlighted the resistance of Northeast tribes to colonial rulers, mentioning significant historical events like the Anglo-Khasi War, Anglo-Naga War, and others, emphasizing tribal solidarity and unity in these struggles.
Prof Guite also discussed the concept of “ecological civilization,” reflecting the close relationship tribal communities have with nature. He called for the recognition of tribal contributions and for deconstructing external narratives that misrepresent tribal histories.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks from Dr Lobeno Mozhui, Assistant Professor in the Department of Zoology. The event was organised by a committee led by Dr Yamsani Srikanth as Convener, Peter Ki as Secretary and other faculty members.
