Indigenous games portray the rich cultural heritage of the Naga society: Er. Zale
Our Correspondent
Kohima | December 13
In commemoration of Dr. T. Ao 100th birth anniversary, a two day long Ist state level indigenous games competition under the aegis of Youth Resources & Sports department got underway here today at Indira Gandhi Stadium, Kohima.
“We as Nagas ought to take pride in playing our traditional games in the best of spirits. We ought to teach and encourage our younger generation to learn and master the art of the game before all of it is lost,” said Youth Resources and Sports advisor Er. Zale Neikha while addressing the inaugural ceremony.
He hoped that this indigenous games competition would portray the rich cultural heritage of the Naga society while enliven the spirits of the younger generation to be taught and “thereby revive the old games once played by our forefathers.”
Er. Neikha thanked Governor of Nagaland for encouraging the department to organize the event.
He said various games vary and have their own significance and impact on society, apart from being just a game of fun. He, however, lamented that most of the games played by the forefathers are fast disappearing.
Through the Naga "indigenous games competition" he pointed out the possibility of the games catching attention of the world through its promotion, and also the rich cultural heritage of the Nagas can be displayed.
Participants from 11 districts are taking part in Tug of war, Grease Bamboo Pole Climbing, Cock Fight and Stilt Bamboo Race.
Earlier, IG Stadium Academy girls demonstrated the Indigenous game "Tholi".
YR&S director Akumla Chuba also spoke on the occasion while nodal officer Nyuvitho Nyuthe chaired the programme.
Meanwhile, valedictory function will take place on December 14 at 3:00 PM.
