ADC Mokokchung, Atsungba Walling, speaking during the opening programme of P Shilu Ao Memorial Indigenous Games Festival-cum-2nd Tug of War Championship at Longjang Village, Mokokchung. (DIPR Photo)
Mokokchung, November 7 (MExN): The two-day P Shilu Ao Memorial Indigenous Games Festival and the 2nd Tug of War Championship commenced at Longjang Village in Mokokchung on November 7.
The opening programme was graced by Atsungba Walling, the ADC & Chief Executive Officer of Mokokchung Municipal Council (MMC), stated a DIPR report.
In his speech, Walling emphasised the importance of preserving indigenous culture, stating that while society has been “greatly influenced by western culture,” people should adapt only to elements “acceptable and relevant to our culture.”
He cautioned against letting the impact of western culture “dilute our rich culture which has been passed down for generations.”
Walling appreciated the Longjang Riongsanger Cultural Society for organising the event to uphold and preserve local heritage. He added that beyond this festival, more initiatives could be undertaken in the future to honour late P. Shilu Ao, whom he described as not just Nagaland’s first Chief Minister but also a “patriot and a true son of the soil.”
A welcome speech was delivered by Imtinungsang Longchar of the Longjang Village Council, and a short speech was given by M Temjen Jamir, President of the Longjang Senso Mungdang.
The event featured a cultural song presented by the Longjang Riongsanger Cultural Society, followed by a display of various indigenous games.
