Chakhesang Cultural Organization (CCO) held its annual general session at Red Cross Building Kohima on May 3, with chairman, Nagaland Bamboo Development Agency (NBDA), Nüzota Swüro, as the guest speaker.
A press release by CCO stated that Swüro in his address stated that Chakhesang culture is a rich tapestry of rituals, songs, attire and traditions, intricately woven into history, however adding that today, the heritage stands at risk of fading away.
“Without urgent and collective action, we may lose the very essence of who we are”, he said, and called for immediate documentation and preservation of cultural legacy to safeguard its originality and ensure its survival for future generations.
He added that Christianity brought profound blessings to the people, most importantly, the message of gospel and promise of salvation through Jesus Christ. He added that alongside spiritual renewal, it also ushered in modernity and what was seen as “civilization”, however he said that its rise has also coincided with gradual erasure of indigenous Naga knowledge and cultural practices.
He added that many indigenous practices once central to their identity were deemed as “primitive” or “sinful”, an idea shaped by early missionary influences, pointing that this led to a growing disconnect between faith and culture, further added that weaving of faith with cultural identity was crucial.
“We can embrace Christianity while honoring the traditions that define us”, Swüro stated, and called for taking action asserting that preservation is no longer optional, but crucial.
He maintained that culture and traditions should be recorded in full context with rigorous research ensuring accuracy for future generations before they were lost to globalization.
Stressing on the need to document culture and traditions, he said “To preserve is to honor. To document is to ensure our culture does not fade—but flourishes”.
Swüro also maintained that there is risk of losing originality of their folk songs, pointing out that while fusion songs were growing in popularity and certainly has their appeal, greater emphasis must be placed on preserving authentic form of their folk songs.
“Since we live in close harmony with nature, now more than ever, we must realign our communities, awaken to our responsibilities, and return to our roots”, he said adding that reviving the age-old traditions of economic self dependence was not just a cultural necessity, but a powerful step toward resilience and sustainability.
The former minister Zachilhü Ringa Vadeo announced the new team of office bearers for the tenure 2025-27, led by Kedoutsolhi Wetsah as president, and Vethikhoyi Khamo as general secretary among the others.
Chakhesang Public Organization (CPO) president Vezühü Keyho also delivered short speech and suggested the initiation of Chakhesang Cultural Day, while CCO joint secretary Neikhwezu Venuh read out secretary’s report, and vote of thanks was proposed by CCO finance secretary Lecho Krocha.