ADC Atsungba Walling graces opening program, urges preservation of Naga culture
The two-day P Shilu Ao Memorial Indigenous Games Festival-cum-2nd Tug of War Championship commenced today at Longjang Village with Atsungba Walling, ADC and Chief Executive Officer of Mokokchung Municipal Council, gracing the opening program as the special guest.
Addressing the gathering, Atsungba Walling said that Naga society has been greatly influenced by Western culture but cautioned against allowing it to erode traditional values and identity. He urged the people to embrace only what is acceptable and relevant to their own culture, emphasizing the need to safeguard and promote the rich cultural heritage handed down through generations.
Commending the Longjang Riongsanger Cultural Society for organizing the event, he said such initiatives play a vital role in preserving indigenous traditions. Walling also reminded the gathering of the contributions of Late P Shilu Ao, the first Chief Minister of Nagaland, describing him as a patriot and a true son of the soil who dedicated his life for the people of Nagaland. He suggested that more initiatives could be undertaken in the future to honor his legacy.
The program began with a welcome address by Imtinungsang Longchar, Barrick of Longjang Village Council. M Temjen Jamir, President of Longjang Senso Mungdang, delivered a short speech, while members of the Longjang Riongsanger Cultural Society presented a cultural song. The event also featured a display of various indigenous games.
The festival is hosted by TN Mannen, MLA and Advisor for Law & Justice and Land Revenue, and organized by the Longjang Riongsanger Cultural Society under the aegis of Longjang Village Council.
The guests of honor for the closing day on November 8 will include A Pangjung Jamir, MLA and Advisor for Fisheries and Aquatic Resources; Nuklutoshi, MLA and Chairman, DPDB Mokokchung; and Tongpang Ozukum, MLA and Advisor for Water Resources. The events are being held at the Longjang Village Playground.