Nearly 300 gather in collective mourning; unity message takes centre stage
Close to 300 members of the Naga community in Bengaluru came together on April 26 evening for a candlelight vigil in memory of Late Chinaoshang Shokwungnao of Tushar village, Late Yaruingam Vashum of Kharasom village, and Late Horshokmi Jamang of Chatrik Khullen, in a gathering marked by grief, solidarity and a call for unity.
Organised by the Naga Students’ Union Bengaluru (NSUB) at Paalanaa Bhavana, the vigil saw participants from different Naga communities standing together in collective mourning.
“Let this gathering send a message strong and clear, that we will not be divided by fear. That we will not turn away in silence. And that we will continue to stand for truth, justice, and peace,” said NSUB General Secretary Kumlanthung Murry.
Speakers at the vigil stressed the need for unity and mutual support during times of uncertainty. Yuikan Shirik, founder of Neurons Designs Pvt Ltd and a senior member of the Tangkhul community, called on Nagas across tribes to stand together with “mutual respect, compassion and collective strength.”
The program began with an invocation by Pastor Tamalong Pongen of Naga Christian Fellowship Bangalore, while the proceedings were led by Eno Vilhu Chalieu, President of Angami Students’ Union Bangalore.
The organisers stated that the vigil was strictly non-political, intended to provide a space for mourning, reflection and solidarity, while honouring the lives of the deceased.
The event concluded with a benediction by Pastor Livingson Rakhangmi of Thangal Fellowship Bangalore.
The gathering, marked by participation across communities, underscored a shared message – that even in grief, unity remains central to the Naga identity.
