State chief minister Neiphiu Rio and Padma Bhushan awardee, Grammy and Oscar-winning composer Dr. A.R. Rahman inaugurated the Centre of Excellence for Music & Arts (CEMA) at Kohima, on December 1.
The event was attended by deputy chief ministers T.R. Zeliang and Y. Patton, along with other dignitaries.
Rio described the establishment of CEMA as not just his dream but a shared aspiration of musicians and artists across Nagaland. He emphasized the state government’s commitment to fostering opportunities for youth in music, arts, and sports, especially for those who lack access. Rio expressed his gratitude to Dr. Rahman for his presence and support, noting his dedication to nurturing young talent.
“Through music, arts, and sports, I hope Nagaland will unite under one umbrella and be recognized not only as the land of festivals but also as the land of music,” Rio stated.
Dr. Rahman, speaking at the event, shared his enthusiasm for Nagaland’s rich musical heritage.
He announced that his musical documentary, Headhunting to Beatboxing, exploring the sonic and cultural heritage of Nagaland, has been selected for the 2025 Palm Springs International Film Festival.
Advisor to CM, Abu Metha, lauded Rio’s long-standing vision for promoting music and arts in the state. He highlighted the recent global achievements of Nagaland’s musicians, including gold medals won by the Nagaland Madrigal Singers and the Nagaland Chamber Choir at the World Choir Games, as evidence of the state’s growing international recognition in the field.
Conceptualized as a hub for nurturing and promoting traditional and contemporary music and arts, CEMA aims to elevate Nagaland’s talent to national and international platforms.
The center, built at a cost of Rs. 5 crore under the Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment scheme, was implemented by the Youth Resources & Sports Department in collaboration with M/s Infrastructural Development Consortium.
The facility will serve as a platform for professional musicians and amateurs to collaborate, learn, and preserve age-old musical traditions. The event, chaired by TaFMA project director Dr. Hovithal Sothu, featured a special performance by Chele. The vote of thanks was delivered by Kuvelu Tetseo, expressing gratitude to all contributors and attendees.