Naga cultural group earns standing ovation in Vancouver as delegation showcases State’s music and heritage in Canada
Nagaland showcased its music, cultural traditions and contemporary creative talent at the 12th edition of the India Film Festival of Alberta (IFFA), bringing Naga cultural expressions to audiences in Canada.
A major highlight of the State’s participation was a performance by the Nagaland Folkloric Group, led by Seyievinuo Chuzo, which received a standing ovation at the Michael J. Fox Theatre in Vancouver on October 7, 2026. The performance took place during a special event hosted by the Consulate General of India in Vancouver.
Blending traditional Naga sounds and cultural expressions with contemporary musical elements, the group presented Nagaland’s diverse heritage while demonstrating how its artistic traditions continue to evolve.
The delegation also held a cultural interaction with Powwow Times from Makwa Sahgaiehcan First Nation. The exchange brought Indigenous and Naga cultural representatives together to share their traditions, music, stories and experiences, highlighting the role of cultural expression in preserving identity, strengthening communities and building connections across continents.
In Edmonton, the delegation was received at a reception hosted by the Edmonton City Council in the presence of Masakui Rungsung, Consul General of India in Vancouver, and Madhan Selvaraj, Executive Director of the India Film Festival of Alberta. The engagement provided an opportunity to strengthen cultural and people-to-people ties between Nagaland and Canada.
Nagaland’s participation received further recognition with the presentation of the Golden Beaver Award to the Government of Nagaland at the inauguration of IFFA on October 10. The award recognised the State’s contribution to arts, culture and music.
The award was received on behalf of Chief Minister Dr. Neiphiu Rio by Theja Meru, Chairman of the Task Force for Music and Arts (TaFMA).
Meru thanked Rio for his continued support for promoting Nagaland’s music, arts and culture internationally. He also acknowledged the support of Rungsung and Selvaraj in facilitating the delegation’s visit and congratulated the cultural contingent on its performance and representation of the State.
Nagaland’s participation in IFFA provided an opportunity to promote its cultural identity, create opportunities for local artists and strengthen international creative partnerships. The performance in Vancouver, cultural exchange with Indigenous representatives, reception in Edmonton and Golden Beaver Award collectively highlighted the State’s efforts to expand its cultural presence beyond its geographical boundaries.
