Morung Express News
Dimapur | November 30
With an objective to preserve and propagate, the Ethnic Performing Arts (EPA) has launched a training programme for imparting traditional Sumi folk art forms.
The initiative, targeting the youth, was the result of a tie-up between the EPA and the Dimapur-based Indigenous Culture Centre managed by Dr Hesheto Chishi. Sumi Hoho President Hekhushe Shikhu was also present during the launch programme.
According to Ikato Y Kiho, EPA Director, the EPA was formed by likeminded Naga youths with a vision to preserve and promote the traditional art & culture of the Nagas.
He said that the advent of modern education has somewhat overshadowed the importance of imparting the Naga traditional art forms on children and even “to the extent of forgetting and devaluing their own mother tongue.”
Considering the chances of losing one’s culture, he said, “We formed Ethnic Performing Arts to mediate, impart, and practice the richness of our forefathers’ tradition, art, and culture.”
Kiho further informed that the course will be of 3 months duration. Initially, it will focus on Sumi folk arts— folk dance and song, indigenous game, acting, theatre designing. He added that no fees will be charged for the first batch.
The instructors will be Dr. Hesheto Chishi, Rev Ghoheto Zhimo, Zuvihe Yeptho, Toheni and Ikato Y Kiho.
