Kan Hneh Ngei Dawn: The Mizo worship song that captivated Nagaland, transcending language and culture

In the early 2000s, the Mizo song ‘Kan Hneh Ngei Dawn’ by Davida Te Unau took Nagaland by storm, despite the language barrier that kept many listeners from fully understanding the lyrics.

Part of the Thenna Ram album, a Mizo Worship and Devotional collection, the song resonated deeply across the region, becoming a beloved tune that transcended cultural boundaries.

The album, reportedly composed by Dr Ramdinthara Sailo, featured 12 tracks, including ‘Chibai Kan Buk A Che,’ ‘I Lamah Min Hip Rawh,’ ‘Isua Chu Lal A Ni,’ and of course, ‘Kan Hneh Ngei Dawn.’ These songs, filled with spiritual messages, were more than just music—they were anthems of faith and perseverance.

Despite its widespread popularity, much remains unknown about Davida Te Unau, the band behind this iconic track. Their music left an indelible mark, yet their identities and stories remain a mystery for non-Mizos, adding to the enigmatic allure of ‘Kan Hneh Ngei Dawn.’

This song, cherished in Nagaland, reminds us of the universal power of music—a language of its own that speaks to the heart, crossing borders and bringing people together in shared emotion and experience.

(MT)