(Left) Howoto Jakhalu address the students of Nagaland Baptist College at its 18th college cultural fest on February 5. (Right) Students presenting a cultural dance.
Nagaland Baptist College celebrates 18th cultural fest
DIMAPUR, FEBRUARY 7 (MExN): The Nagaland Baptist College Dimapur held its 18th cultural fest with the theme ‘Culture and Tradition: Our Prized Inheritance’ on February 5 with Howoto Jakhalu, Proprietor, M/s Multi Builders as chief guest.
Addressing the occasion, Jakhalu said that “we have a very unique culture. Unfortunately, it is almost forgotten as we have failed to promote and uphold it in proper way.” He observed that people here, especially the younger generations are trying to copy other cultures instead of giving importance to our own.
Lamenting that Naga society is so much influenced by other cultures that there are many families who can't speak in their own language, he said it was very saddening to note that Naga culture and language is dying a slow death.
“How can we even think about preserving the tradition when we can't speak our own language,” he questioned and reminded the students it is most important to preserve ones language and culture. Otherwise, there may come a time when we will have no identity, he cautioned.
Jakhalu was of the view that the system of the Morung in past years of Naga society was most vital in nurturing young boys and girls as it was sort of an institute wherein young boys and girls were able to learn various moral values and ethical ways of life besides skills of art, craft and game etc.
Another aspect Howoto dwelt on was work culture. He pointed out that “our forefathers were known for their self sufficient and hard working by nature". “They did not depend on others and lived an independent life because they were hard working people but the society in which we are living is just the opposite,” he noted.
He said easy living and easy money has destroyed the nature of the Naga people and despite having such a fertile land, nobody wants to work and it is others who are cultivating “and we are buying from them produce cultivated in our land.”
He, therefore, called upon the young people to inculcate work culture if one wants Naga society to progress.
He further encouraged organising of such programs in all institutions.
President of Northern Sumi Students Union, Puloto G Awomi who was the guest of honour exhorted the students.
Students’ Union President of the college, Kahito K Kinimi welcomed the guests to the event which was co-hosted by lecturers John Chote and Roketoli Zhimo.
