DGP Band performs at 50 years commemorative concert in Kohima on April 10. (Morung Photo)
Our Correspondent
Kohima | April 10
Celebrating 50 years of “Service through Music,’ Nagaland’s DGP Band Golden Jubilee commemorative concert took placed at the Capital Cultural Hall, Kohima on April 10 amidst thunderous applause from fans and well wishers. The event celebrates 50 years of musical excellence and service. The concert also featured Divine Connection, Moko Koza, Mahila Band, NCS Band and various other artists.
‘Proud musical ambassador of Nagaland Police’
In Coffee Table Book of the band, Nagaland Governor Nand Kishore Yadav stated, “My sincere appreciation goes to every musician who has been a part of the journey. Your commitment has turned a band into a state treasure.” Yadav wishes the DGP Band continued success as they remain committed to serving the people of Nagaland through the power of music.
“As you celebrate this historic milestone, May the DGP Band continue to inspire generations with its music, uphold the highest standard of professionalism, and bring pride to Nagaland,” penned Chief Minister Dr Neiphiu Rio. Dr Rio stated that for 50 glorious years, the DGP band has stood as a proud musical ambassador of the Nagaland Police, exemplifying discipline, dedication and artistic excellence.
Nagaland Deputy Chief Minister Y Patton stated, “As one of the oldest surviving rock and roll bands in the country, DGP Band occupies a unique place in our history, representing a bridge between the police force and the public through the universal language of music.”
“The DGP Band has proven that true service through music transcends entertainment- it heals, inspires and unites, “stated Nagaland’s DGP Rupin Sharma.
About DGP Band
The story off DGP Band begins in the golden era of 1970s, when six young friends - Neitseilie, Lulu, Thekielie, Medo Belho, Avi Angami and Mohan formed a band named “The Rivals.” Recognizing their talent, Shurhiu Angami, the then commandant of 4th NAP Battalion inducted them into the force, and in 1976, “The Rivals” was rechristened as 4th NAP Jazz Band. With Havildar Moa Ao as the first Band In-Charge and Neitseilie as his assistant, the band operated with minimal instruments and basic equipment. By 1986, Havildar Neitseilie assumed charge as Band Manager. A new line-up emerged with members Khupao Kuki, Prasanto Barman, Ajay Ganguly, Ismail, Mangkholen Kuki, Bendang, Imli, and Rishikesh Goswami, while the spirit of the founders lived on.
Timely support from Police Headquarters during the tenure of H.K. Rengma, the then Commandant, ensured the provision of essential instruments. Singing fluently in Hindi, English, Assamese, Bengali, and Nepali, they connected with audiences across cultures and regions.
In 2003, the band reached a historic milestone by winning the Northeast Beat Contest in New Delhi. The band's excellence earned them honour of performing before a galaxy of distinguished personalities, including; Giani Zail Singh, Former President of India, Rajiv Gandhi, Former Prime Minister of India, Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, Former President of India, Hamid Ansari, Former Vice President of India, Pratibha Patil, Former President of India, A.K. Antony, Former Union Minister, H.D. Deve Gowda, Former Prime Minister of India, Pranab Mukherjee, Former President of India, P.V. Narasimha Rao, Former Prime Minister of India, Atal Bihari Vajpayee, Former Prime Minister of India and H.H. Maha Chakri Sirindhorn, Princess of Thailand.
The band also shared stages with renowned personalities such a Bollywood actress Manisha Koirala, music maestro Dr. A R Rahman, performances with Smokie and various events. In January 2004, reflecting their growing stature and state-wide identity, the 4th NAP Jazz Bandh was officially rechristened as the DGP Band, carrying the motto” Service Through Music. Today, the band comprises 14 members, including two female vocalists, skilled sound engineers, and trained musicians.
Band members through the years
Moalemba Pongen, Neitseilie Tsiekha, Lulu, Thekelie, Medo Belho, Avi Angami, Vihoto, Kilenwati, Mohan, Imli Jamir, Akangmar, Bendang, Khupao Kuki, Ismail Kuki, Mangkholen Kuki, Rishikesh Goswami, Prasanto Barman, Ajay Ganguly, Temsu Ao, Lipokinba Poengen, Tia Ao, Soremo Lotha, Chuba Ao, Ajak Konyak, Michael Tsiekha, Alok Das, C. Moatemsu Walling, Hesso Shohe, Nzan Yanthan, Neiletuo Metha, Sentilong Walling, Lanusunep Ao, Dethoselie, Satemkaba Ao, Keneisevor Kire, Esther Dailliam, Moatoshi, Mahihra Kapelo, Vekhozo Kezo, Sali Ckg, Tulonungsang, Hokito Sumi, Zasilie Savino, Lipokwapang Jamir, Victor Kin and Petekhrielie.
A fully equipped studio at Battalion Headquarters, Thizama, was constructed under the initiative of Vekhosa Chakhesang, NPS, during the tenure of L.L. Doungel, IPS, DGP Nagaland. Tracing its roots back to April 4, 1976, DGP Band stands as one of the oldest surviving bands in Nagaland-if not the country.
