Kohima College observed its 58th Cultural Day under the theme “Roots Before Wings” on Friday, bringing together students from diverse Naga communities to celebrate their cultural heritage through traditional songs, folk dances, ethnic presentations and displays of indigenous cuisine.
The celebration emphasised the importance of preserving cultural identity while embracing modern opportunities, with special invitees urging students to draw on their ancestral knowledge and traditions as they navigate a changing world.
Kele William Soleho, co-founder of Naga1 App and proprietor of Magdaline Coaching, highlighted the potential of indigenous practices in modern entrepreneurship. Drawing an analogy with the growth and resilience of bamboo, he encouraged students to integrate traditional weaving, local agriculture and community networking into entrepreneurial ventures.
Addressing the challenges of employment, Soleho identified enterprise as a potential avenue for tackling joblessness amid limited government employment opportunities. He also spoke about overcoming self-doubt and societal pressure through physical, mental and spiritual well-being.
Another special invitee, Kepozo Kapuh, winner of the Best Responder category at the Viksit Bharat Youth Parliament 2026, cautioned students against pursuing social mobility at the expense of their cultural identity.
He emphasised that indigenous languages, traditional attire and oral histories carry the wisdom of previous generations, urging students to listen to their elders and preserve their cultural roots. He also encouraged them to use technology to strengthen their identity rather than merely for entertainment, while challenging them to rise above tribal divisions.
The cultural program featured performances and competitions showcasing the traditions of participating Naga communities. Highlights included “OH HI YO” presented by Chakhesang students, a performance titled “A Kecha Kemengu” by Unutolu Thuluo, and a special appearance by the Galo Folk Dance group.
Students also set up traditional stalls featuring cuisines from different Naga tribes, adding a culinary dimension to the celebration.
In the competitions, Wapong Longkumer representing the Ao community and Yonolu representing the Chakhesang community received the Mr Ethnic and Miss Ethnic titles, respectively.
The Rengma and Sangtam communities secured first and second positions in the War Cry competition, while the Chakhesang and Angami communities placed first and second in Folk Song. In Folk Dance, the Zeliang community won first place, followed by the Rengma community.
The celebration underscored the role of cultural education in fostering mutual respect, inclusivity and unity among young people while encouraging them to pursue progress without losing touch with their heritage.
MT