NEFS organises Naga Day-cum- cultural extravaganza in Shillong

With the objective of bringing together all Nagas irrespective of their geographical divide to a common platform, Naga Elders’ Forum Shillong (NEFS) organized its first “Naga Day-cum- cultural extravaganza” at U Soso Tham auditorium, State Central Library, Shillong on Saturday. 

A press note by NEFS president, Tolu Chophy stated that secretary NEC, Ramnganing Muivah and secretary of Land Resources, Kohima, Y. Kikheto Sema was the chief guest and guest of honour respectively.

In his address, Muivah described Khasis as one of the finest people and advised the young Nagas to be respectful to the local people by conducting themselves properly. He encouraged youths to be diligent, industrious, honest and hardworking.

Ramnganing also called upon Naga people in Shillong to be ambassadors of their respective tribes and their state. He said the motifs and prints of Naga traditional attires were “biographical account of the wearer” as it depicted the Naga way of life. 

In his speech, Kikheto Naga people despite their geographical locations should remain united and spread peace and tranquillity. He also asked the youths to know their culture and be rooted in it. 

“Wise people do not abandon their culture but preserve it. But preservation does not mean disrespect to other culture,” he said.

Kikheto said that the need of the hour for the Naga people was to forgive and forget each other’s mistakes and surge ahead with unity.

Stating that Nagas cannot afford to create enmity within themselves or with neighbours, Kikheto called upon all to be living examples to other parts of the country.

Earlier, in his welcome address, NEFS, president, Tolu Chophy said that culture and music have become a unifying factor for the Nagas and that this unity should not only be confined within Shillong but spread to other cities and states. 

Nise Meruno and Zowe Madrigal, Guru Reuben Mashangva, Tetseo Sisters, Abiogenesis, Patkai Choir, Chonchon, Nimshimphy and Lhouvirielie Usou were some of the artists that performed during the programme. The Liangmei Cultural Club and Phom Traditional Dance Troupe also performed traditional items.