Nagaland Governor Nand Kishore Yadav, CM Dr Neiphiu Rio and the award at Dr Imkongliba Ao Hall, Lok Bhavan, Kohima on August 15.
Five personalities conferred Governor’s Award in field of Arts, Music and Literature 2026
Kohima, August 15 (MExN): Nagaland Governor Nand Kishore Yadav on Saturday conferred the Governor’s Award in the field of Arts, Music and Literature 2026 upon five distinguished personalities at a ceremony held at Dr Imkongliba Ao Hall, Lok Bhavan, Kohima, as part of the 80th Independence Day ‘At Home’ reception.
The awardees included Aku Zeliang and Bendang Walling (Arts), and Divine Connection, Imkonglemba and Joey Woch (Music). The Governor congratulated them for their contributions and commended the state government, concerned departments and the jury for recognising outstanding talent in the creative fields, the PRO Lok Bhavan Nagaland stated in a press release.
Speaking on the occasion, Yadav described arts, music and literature as “much more than forms of creative expression” that enable society to “remember its past, understand its present and imagine its future.” He noted that Nagaland’s history has largely been transmitted through oral traditions, folk songs, indigenous knowledge, craftsmanship and storytelling, making artists and musicians “custodians of memory and interpreters of collective identity.”
The Governor stressed that originality, innovation, impact and cultural relevance were key principles of excellence, and that “tradition and modernity need not be opposites.” He encouraged artists to explore new techniques while drawing inspiration from the state’s landscapes and traditions, and urged musicians to preserve indigenous musical forms while experimenting and collaborating.
“As young people become increasingly connected to India and the wider world through technology, there is both an opportunity and a responsibility to ensure that they embrace the best of the modern world while remaining firmly connected to their roots,” he said.
Yadav called for greater collaboration among educational institutions, cultural bodies and creative communities, and emphasised the need to identify and nurture young talent early. He also highlighted the potential of digital archives, online platforms and translations to take Nagaland’s creative traditions to national and global audiences.
Referring to the vision of a Viksit Bharat, the Governor said development must be inclusive of cultures, languages and creative traditions, and described Nagaland’s heritage as “a bridge between the state and the rest of the country.”
He urged the awardees to view the recognition not as the culmination of their creative journeys but as encouragement to reach greater heights and inspire the next generation, including those from remote villages.
Chief Minister Dr Neiphiu Rio, advisors, MLAs, senior officials and invited guests attended the programme.
