Naga Students’ Union Shillong (NSUS)’s annual “Naga Week” marking the “63rd NSUS Cultural cum Literary Day” commenced on November 4 under the theme, “Bridging gaps with literature and culture”.
A press release by NSUS stated that DGP Meghalaya, Dr. L.R. Bishnoi and BJP MM NEC in-charge of Manipur Pradesh, Sumitra Laloo were the chief guest and guest of honour respectively.
In his address, Dr. Bishnoi highlighted the gathering on the complex diversity of languages in the North Eastern region of India, informing that 5000 languages are spoken in the world today, 1600 are spoken in India, out of which 25% was spoken in north east India. He underscored the importance of knowing and understanding culture to avoid misconceptions and preconceived notions that inversely, create multi-faceted gaps between people from different age groups, cultures, and different generations as well.
Dr. Bishnoi appreciated the tribal diversity of Nagaland and the spirit of inclusivity that presides over the state. He said such spirit bridge gaps among people, and that people from other parts of the India could learn from this community culture of the Nagas.
Speaking on the theme, Sumitra Laloo said kindness was a big part of traditional tribal culture that bridges gaps amongst people. She said this spirit of communality among the tribal people counteracts the system of classism that dictates social relationships of today. Laloo also called upon the students to safeguard and love their culture as traditions gives people their identity. NSUS president, Chiran Shimrah and Naga Elder’s Forum president, Tolu Chopy also spoke at the event.