Moatsü reflects deeper philosophy, rooted in values: Gajendra Shekhawat

Union Minister for Culture and Tourism Gajendra Singh Shekhawat underscored the philosophical significance of the Moatsü festival, highlighting its role in promoting gratitude, community bonding and harmony with nature.
Gracing the second day of the Moatsü-cum-Mini Hornbill Festival at Longpayimsen village Saturday, Shekhawat said the festival reflected core Indian values, where development was measured not only by production but also by ethics, culture and collective consciousness. He added that true national progress depended on the character of the people, not merely infrastructure growth. Describing Nagaland as a strong reflection of India’s diversity, the minister emphasised that development must not come at the cost of identity, remarking that “modernity without identity is rootless.” He also highlighted the values of unity and forgiveness embedded in the festival, observing that communities celebrating together remain cohesive and resilient.
On tourism, Shekhawat said culture can serve as a powerful driver of development, noting that tradition-based tourism has the potential to uplift local communities. Referring to the success of the Hornbill Festival in placing Nagaland on the global tourism map, he said initiatives like the Mini Hornbill Festival help decentralise tourism and extend its benefits to grassroots levels.
Stressing that the Northeast, particularly Nagaland, holds a key place in this vision, he called for collective efforts to preserve and promote cultural heritage.