How ‘District Band Zunheboto’ is reviving Zunheboto’s musical legacy

From She Lomi to Lomi agacho toi, Sumi Naga songs have been listened to and cherished across the state to this day. However, for over two decades, in the Sumi-dominant district of Zunheboto, the once-thriving music scene has largely remained obscure. The echoes of renowned local artists, particularly the legendary Sumi Sheshu from the early 1990s, have faded, leaving behind distant memories in the collective consciousness of the district.

Sumi Sheshu, the musical ensemble that translates to ‘Raise the Sumi Voice,’ had luminaries like Dr Hotokhu Chishi and Er Kitoshe Aye, who were more than mere performers but were revered figures in the Sumi community, as locals have attested. However, with the gradual decline of Sumi Sheshu’s influence, Zunheboto witnessed the erosion of its once-thriving musical scene, and today, the district still lacks a band of renown. A belief emerged that the scarcity of platforms was stifling the district’s artistic ability, and a dearth of opportunities was preventing the creativity that once defined Zunheboto.

Therefore, in a bold initiative to break the prolonged musical silence, District Band Zunheboto (DBZ) is gearing up to orchestrate the Winter Live Concert on December 20, 2023, at the Multi-Purpose Hall in Zunheboto. Former member of Sumi Sheshu and Superintending Engineer at PHED, Nagaland, Er Kitoshe Aye, will grace the event as the special guest.
The primary objective of DBZ is to uplift and encourage the emerging local artists. But what sets the DBZ’s initiative apart is its unique collaboration with the Zunheboto District Administration. Launched and formed on April 10, 2021, under the leadership of then DC Peter Lichamo, DC Zunheboto Rahul Bhanudas Mali, IAS, currently serves as the Chairman of DBZ, with Vikheshe Aye as the Vice-Chairman.

Vitoka Sumi, from the Media Cell of DBZ, shared the organization’s mission with Mokokchung Times, emphasizing the aim to provide platforms for the abundant talent in the district. “Our objective is to promote local artists, encourage other bands, and give everyone a stage to showcase their musical talent,” Sumi stated. He expressed aspirations for future endeavors, including establishing a music studio for practice and services and improving the sound systems.

Sumi revealed that the organizing team, consisting of like-minded volunteers, is driven by the desire to encourage the people of the entire district.

“People are truly happy and excited because such events are taking place after such a long time,” Sumi expressed about the people’s reaction to the event. “We are inviting NK Naga, a National Award recipient, as part of our effort to encourage and inspire. This marks just the beginning, and we hope to expand, inviting artists and bands from across the state in the years to come,” Sumi added, expressing optimism about organizing the event next year.

The band members of DBZ include: Meshel Yeptho (Keyboard/Guitar), Inato Yeptho (Guitar), Benjamin V Yeptho (Guitar), Nikheto Yeptho (Bass), Iloto Chishi (Vocal), Akavi Yeptho (Vocal), and Ometo Muru (Drummer).

As the Winter Live Concert approaches, the anticipation is not just for a musical event but for the revival of Zunheboto’s rich musical legacy. The event partners are Digital Sound Solution Zunheboto and TaFMA District Partner Zunheboto with entry tickets for the concert priced at Rs 300 and Rs 500.

Mokokchung Times