A Guru Shishya Parampara Kendra (a traditional centre) funded under the Ministry of Culture, Government of India was opened at Mongchen village under Mokokchung district on January 7.
A press release from Guru Shishya Parampara Kendra, Mongchen village, stated that the centre (or Kendra) facilitated by the North East Zone Cultural Centre (NEZCC), Dimapur will be looked after by a “Guru”, Punalemla, who is a certified handloom artisan.
She will be assisted by an “accompanist” and the centre will admit four shishyas (or pupils) who will learn the art of traditional weaving and other handloom works.
The main objective of the Kendra, a first of its kind under the scheme, is to promote, preserve and exhibit the rich traditional arts like weaving, dances, folksongs, dresses etc. of the society. The Kendra in Mongchen is expected to promote women and the girl child to become self-sufficient and self-reliant by practicing the traditional art of weaving and also by partaking in different expos all over the country.
The shisyas (or pupils) will be given extensive training throughout the year at the centre. The pupils will be given training every Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 10 am to 1 pm.