Ajay Kumar Bhalla addressing Governor’s Award 2025 Ceremony in Kohima on February 2. (Morung Photo)
Our Correspondent
Kohima | February 2
“A society that invests in arts and literature invests in its soul,” Governor of Manipur and Nagaland, Ajay Kumar Bhalla, said on February 2, underscoring the importance of cultural growth alongside economic and technological advancement.
Addressing the Governor’s Award 2025 Ceremony in the Fields of Arts, Music, and Literature at Dr. Imkongliba Ao Hall, Lok Bhavan, Kohima, Bhalla said that as the State moves forward on its journey of development and progress, it is essential that cultural growth moves hand in hand with economic and technological advancement. He urged educational institutions, government departments, and civil society organisations to continue nurturing creative talent and expanding platforms for artistic expression.
Five awardees—four individuals and one musical group—were honoured during the ceremony. The recipients were Mannyei Konyak (Arts), Guru Rarenbenba (Arts), Colored Keys (Music), Moko Koza (Music) and Vishii Rita Krocha (Literature). Each award carried a cash award of Rs. 5 lakh.
Bhalla said that Government of Nagaland has been taking commendable steps to promote cultural preservation and creative industries. “Such initiatives not only strengthen our identity but also create livelihoods, foster tourism, and enhance our State’s presence on national and international platforms. Let us continue to build an ecosystem where creativity flourishes, diversity is celebrated, and excellence is encouraged,” he said.
Earlier in his address, the Governor said that Nagaland is a land blessed with extraordinary cultural wealth—a vibrant mosaic of traditions, languages, folklore, rhythms, and artistic expressions. “Our arts and literature are not confined to galleries or bookshelves; they live in our festivals, our songs, our dances, our storytelling traditions, and our everyday lives. They are the soul of our people and the living memory of our history,” Bhalla said.
In a rapidly changing world, where modernity often overshadows tradition, the role of artists, musicians, and writers becomes even more significant, the Governor said, adding that they serve as custodians of our heritage and as pioneers of new thought. Through their creativity, they bridge the past and the future, enabling society to evolve without losing its roots, he said.
“The five awardees we honour today represent the very best of this noble pursuit,” he stated, adding that their work reflects discipline, originality, and unwavering commitment to excellence. Whether through visual arts, music, poetry, prose, or research-based literature, they have contributed meaningfully to the preservation and advancement of our cultural identity. Their achievements bring not only recognition to themselves but also pride to the State and inspiration to countless young minds, he said.
Bhalla said that art has the unique ability to speak where words fall short, music transcends boundaries of language and geography, and literature gives voice to human experience and nurtures the conscience of society. Together, these three forces shape the moral, emotional, and intellectual landscape of a nation. They cultivate empathy, encourage reflection, and promote harmony—qualities that are essential in building a peaceful and progressive society.
Acknowledging the contribution of Naga artists and scholars who have worked tirelessly in documenting indigenous knowledge, folklore, oral traditions, and endangered languages, he said, “Their work safeguards our identity for future generations and ensures that the wisdom of our ancestors continues to guide our collective journey forward.”
Extending congratulations to the awardees, he said, “Your achievements remind us that excellence is not born overnight; it is the result of perseverance, passion, and purpose. You have demonstrated that creativity, when nurtured with discipline and sincerity, can illuminate minds and transform communities. Your success story sends a powerful message to our youth—that dedication to the arts and letters is not only noble but also nation-building.”
He expressed hope that the awardees will continue to contribute generously to cultural dialogue and inspire others to pursue artistic excellence with integrity and dedication. “May your work continue to enlighten minds, touch hearts, and elevate the spirit of our people. May Nagaland’s creative legacy grow stronger with each passing generation, and may our cultural expressions continue to reflect the richness, resilience, and harmony of our great state,” the Governor said.
