On the fourth death anniversary of late Razhukhrielie “R. Khrielie” Kevichusa (1941–2022), the recorded version of his acclaimed Tenyidie musical “Jüketa Nuo-U (The Prodigal Son)” was released on August 20 as a tribute to his multifaceted musical legacy.
The play was first staged in 1973 and subsequently performed several times, with its last staging in 2008. The recording released on Thursday is based on the 2008 production, which was directed by Até Kevichusa.
Late Khrielie was a respected Naga public servant and significant figure in the musical life of the Angami community. Alongside his career as an agricultural engineer, IAS officer and later chairman of the Nagaland Public Service Commission, he devoted himself to music as a classical violinist, composer, songwriter and singer.
His compositions brought together Christian faith, Angami cultural identity and a deep appreciation for melody.
His musical legacy was further highlighted in 2019 with the release of Songs of R. Kevichusa: The Tenyidie Collection at RCEMPA, Jotsoma. The double album featured 18 Tenyidie gospel and secular songs composed by him over nearly four decades.