Nagaland: Vivela Club Kohima celebrates golden jubilee

Vivela Club Kohima, a premier socio-cultural organisation of the Gorkha community, marked its Golden Jubilee with a grand culmination programme and vibrant cultural evening on December 20 at the Multi-Utility Hall, Gorkha Public Panchayat Complex, Chandmari, Kohima. The celebration was held under the theme “Celebrating the Past, Envisioning the Future.”
The day began with a Jubilee parade, featuring male and female members in jubilee uniform, accompanied by the pipe band of the 13 Assam Rifles and traditional Gorkha instruments such as Madal and Jhiyali, played by members of the North Eastern Region Service Nepali Association (NERSNA). The parade commenced from Seyie Gas Agency Junction and culminated at the GPPK Complex.
The culmination programme was graced by Dr. Neiphrezo Keditsu, advisor to the chief minister, as special guest; Theja Meru, chairman, Task Force for Music and Arts (TaFMA), as guest of honour; and Ranjeet Lama, advisor, Gorkha Public Panchayat Kohima (GPPK), as honoured guest.
The event began with Deep Prajwalan (lighting of the ceremonial lamp), followed by a moment of silence in remembrance of departed members. Suresh Kr. Lama delivered the welcome address, highlighting the historic significance of the occasion.
Santu Thapa, advisor, Vivela Club and Organising Secretary, VCGJCC, reflected on the club’s five-decade journey, honouring past leaders and calling for unity and renewed responsibility.
In his address, Dr. Neiphrezo Keditsu lauded the contributions of the Gorkha community and assured them of continued respect and security. Theja Meru praised the club’s role in promoting unity and cultural harmony, Shri Ranjeet Lama acknowledged its efforts in fostering goodwill across communities.
The cultural and entertainment evening was, graced by Dr. Tseilhuotuo Rhutso, MLA, 9 Kohima Town A/C, as special guest; Thephuzakie Suohu, general secretary, Tsütuonuomia Khel Council, as guest of honour; and Prem Kumar Thapa, general secretary, Nagaland Gorkha Association, as honoured guest.
Dr. Rhutso addressed the gathering, highlighting the Gorkha community’s long-standing demand for OBC status and assured his continued support. Suohu commended the club’s socio-cultural contributions and stressed the importance of cleanliness. Thapa reflected on the club’s legacy since the 1970s and congratulated its members for sustaining its vision.
The evening featured cultural performances by the Mothers’ Group and young girls, showcasing traditional Gorkha dances. The Vivela Club Band captivated the audience with Hindi and Nepali songs, adding vibrancy to the celebration.
Dhurbo Gurung presented a soulful Hindi solo, while Shristi and her troupe performed a traditional Nepali group dance during the culmination programme.
The vote of thanks was proposed by Ram Kr. Chettri during the day programme and by Reena Pradhan Thapa, former general secretary, during the evening event.