S. Keoshu Yimkhiung, Obed Quinker, Dr. Theyiesinuo Keditsu and others at YSUK cultural day in Kohima on September 14. (Morung photo)
Our Correspondent
Kohima | September 14
The Yimkhiung Students’ Union Kohima (YSUK) today showcased the vibrant culture and traditions of the Yimkhiung tribe by holding cultural day under the theme “Celebrating our roots and preserving cultural patterns” at State Academy Hall, Kohima.
The occasion called for promotion and preservation of the rich and unique culture and traditions.
Advisor for Youth Resources & Sports, S. Keoshu Yimkhiung released a documentary video on Yimkhiung traditional attires.
Gracing the occasion, Obed Quinker, chairman, Nagaland Beekeeping & Honey Mission, Nagaland urged upon the students to use the social media platform in the right perspective.
Talking about the Nagas at the crossroad for too long, Quinker said that it is time to stand up and affirm ourselves and get out of this crossroad in life. “We need innovation. We need creativity,” he said adding that there are many options and endless opportunities “but we fail to explore that.”
In this, he challenged the students to innovate and upgrade their skills.
‘Let us celebrate our roots with pride’
Talking on the theme of the Cultural Day, Dr Theyiesinuo Keditsu, Poet, Academic & Educator said “For the Yimkhiung, this moment in history is pivotal. As Nagas, we have spent so much of our time and energy focusing on what has been done to us by the Indian state that we have long overlooked what has been done to us the British, and yes, the missionaries.”
She said that Yimkhiung roots remain strong and grounded, and it is from these roots that “you draw wisdom and resilience.”
Dr Keditsu said that celebrating roots isn't just an abstract idea; it requires effort, it demands action.
“You are the bridge between the past and the future. You have the tools of critical thinking, the privilege of higher education, and the ancestral wisdom of your tribe,” she said.
Celebrating your roots is an act of resistance, but it is also an act of survival, Dr Keditsu said adding “But celebration is only one side of the coin. We must also ask how we preserve our cultural patterns.”
She said that “As Yimkhiung students, you are uniquely positioned to walk the fine line between the modern world and your heritage. To use the critical tools you have gained through education to sort out which of our cultural patterns are equitable and just and therefore need to be honoured and developed.”
You are guardians of your heritage, and it is through you that your culture will live on, she said.
Celebrating our roots is not just about looking back; it is about using the strength of our past to build a future, she said adding “Preserving our cultural patterns is not about resisting change; it is about ensuring that the change we embrace does not erase who we are,” Dr Keditsu said. “Let us celebrate our roots with pride and preserve our cultural patterns with the care they deserve,” she added.
Earlier, YSUK president Runshito Lims delivered welcome address while vote of thanks was proposed by YSUK general secretary W. Dokhim.
