Chief Minister Dr Neiphiu Rio virtually inaugurated the T Sentichuba Amphitheatre at Mongsenyimti village on August 5, 2025, in the presence of Advisor Tongpang Ozukum, dignitaries, and community members.
Morung Express News
Mongsenyimti | August 5
The T. Sentichuba Amphitheatre at Mongsenyimti village under Mokokchung district was formally inaugurated today. The inaugural ceremony was held in the presence of local leaders, government officials, and villagers, with the virtual participation of Chief Minister Dr Neiphiu Rio as the chief guest.
The programme was hosted by local MLA and Advisor for Water Resources, Tongpang Ozukum. The amphitheatre is named in honour of the late T. Sentichuba—a prominent political leader and social figure from the village, and a seven-time MLA.
The Amphitheatre features a central performance arena, tiered seating galleries with a capacity of 800 persons, a roofed structure for all-weather use, green rooms, sanitation facilities, ample parking space, and traditional stone carvings. Executed by M/s ALEMTHY JR, construction began in November 2023 and was completed within the stipulated timeframe.
The total funding for the amphitheatre amounted to Rs 295 lakhs, with Rs 200 lakhs sanctioned under the Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI) 2023–24, and Rs 95 lakhs from the State Fund for the same fiscal year, as per the technical report presented by the Engineering Wing of the Department of Youth Resources and Sports, Government of Nagaland.
In his virtual address, Chief Minister Dr Neiphiu Rio highlighted the symbolic importance of the project, describing it as “a testament to community unity and vision.”
He recalled how the proposal first emerged during the Tsüngremmong festival celebration in 2018, when the Mongsenyimti Village Council expressed their desire to construct an amphitheatre
Dr Rio had assured his support, which was later fulfilled through state funding.
“This event is not just the unveiling of a new structure, but a powerful testament to the unity and vision of the people of Mongsenyimti,” the Chief Minister said. He praised the infrastructure as a blend of modern utility and cultural purpose, envisioned to host cultural performances, foster community interaction, create economic opportunities, and encourage youth engagement.
Paying tribute to the late T. Sentichuba, Dr Rio lauded his immense contributions to the state, stating,
“He was one of the most decorated and revered leaders, contesting ten elections and winning seven. His legacy is one of visionary leadership and enduring service.”
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The Chief Minister also announced the upgradation of roads to Old and New Yaongyimti villages in view of the upcoming 61st Students’ Conference in 2026, and to Longmisa village, which will celebrate 100 years of Christianity in December 2026. He urged the people to continue supporting the present government and leadership.
In his address, host Tongpang Ozukum called it a proud day for all Nagas, asserting that the newly inaugurated amphitheatre “is the best in the state.” He stated that naming the venue after Sentichuba was not merely symbolic, but a rightful and deserved acknowledgment of his enduring legacy. He emphasized that the facility is meant for year-round use, not only for the Moatsü and Tsüngremmong festivals. To facilitate its use, he announced the formation of a Mongsenyimti Culture Committee for future events, with guidance sought from the North East Zone Cultural Centre (NEZCC). He also praised the technical expertise provided by workers from Zapami village, and expressed gratitude to all who contributed toward realizing the vision of the people.
Other highlights of the event included cultural presentations by the Arkum Club and the Sonshan Dancing Troupe, and speeches from dignitaries including Mokokchung DC Ajit Kumar Verma, IAS, NEZCC Director Dr. Prashanna Gogoi, and Mrs. Chubasenla, wife of the late T. Sentichuba.
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