The Angami Students’ Union (ASU), in collaboration with the Tribal Subordinate Students’ Bodies of Kohima, organised a Cultural Fiesta under the theme “Together in Culture, Together in Harmony” at the Capital Cultural Hall, Kohima, on Sunday. The afternoon session featured a Cultural Mosaic and Ethnic Fashion Showcase, with participating tribal students’ bodies presenting traditional attires, songs, dances and other cultural expressions.
Speaking as the guest of honour, Deputy Commissioner Kohima, B. Henok Buchem, NCS, said the event provided an opportunity to celebrate Nagaland’s cultural diversity while reflecting on the heritage inherited from the forebears and what should be passed on to future generations. Buchem highlighted to common values found across Naga traditions, including respect for elders, hospitality, community responsibility, hard work, courage and a strong sense of belonging. He said these values form an important heritage that deserves to be preserved and carried forward.
He noted that Kohima, as the State capital, serves as a shared space where people from different tribes and communities come together, making such cultural exchanges important for promoting mutual understanding and harmony. He encouraged the younger generation to embrace technology, social media and artificial intelligence while remaining connected to their cultural roots, languages and elders, Buchem urged them to “choose offline hospitality over online hostility” and use modern tools to preserve and promote their heritage.
He also stressed the importance of love, care, compassion, understanding and respect among communities, and appealed to the gathering to popularise “God Bless My Nagaland” as a common song that could bring Nagas together. Buchem congratulated the ASU for organising the fiesta and expressed hope that the initiative would continue and grow in the coming years. The Cultural Mosaic featured presentations by the Kohima Lotha Students’ Union, Zeliangrong Students’ Union Kohima, Western Angami Students’ Union, Kohima Sumi Students’ Union, Ao Kaketshir Telongjem Kohima, Rengma Students’ Union Kohima, Eastern Nagas, Kohima Chakhesang Students’ Union and Pochury Students’ Union Kohima.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Vichasa Suohumvü, Secretary, Art & Culture, ASU.
