‘People of UK, Nagaland have a shared history’

Stone-pulling ceremony of the Angami tribe spreads message of unity, peace

Our Correspondent
Kohima | December 3  

Attired in traditional fineries, thousands from the Angami community today came together to participate at the traditional stone-pulling event here in the state capital Kohima. This event is part of the Hornbill Festival of Nagaland in commemoration with the golden jubilee celebration of the Angami Sports Association scheduled next year.  

In a brief address, Nagaland Chief Minister TR Zeliang who was the chief guest said that stone-pulling ceremony is one of the most interesting traditions of the Angamis, which has been practiced since time immemorial. He said this is not only a mere event in pulling the stone or wooden gate, but it has a great significance, which showcase the unity among different khels, clans in the village.  

“We strongly believe that through this colorful event, the message of unity, peace and progress will reach out to the other parts of the world,” he said.  

Appreciating the presence of Alan Gemmel, OBE Minister Cultural Affairs, British Council, India, Zeliang said Nagaland have had a very special relationship with the British Government for almost a century prior to India’s independence. And even after India’s independence, that special relationship with the British government and its people continues, especially in the field of socio-educational development.  

“The Kohima War Cemetery constructed and maintained by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission, has been, and will continue to provide that special linkage between us for many years to come,” he said.  

The Chief Minister also asserted that the Nagas, while moving fast towards modernization, are equally good in preserving its roots, its identity, culture etc.   According to him, “the North East tribals are small in number, and unless we take care to preserve our culture and identify, the bigger communities will not recognize or respect us.”  

“I think the innate desire of the Nagas to preserve our culture and identity is one of the important issues in the Naga political movement, as well as in the ongoing political dialogue on the Naga political problem,” the Chief Minister said. Guest of honour, Alan Gemmel said the people of UK and Nagaland share many things. He said that he was pleased to see so many lights and trees for Christmas on his journey, adding “I thought I was back in my own country of Scotland.” 

“We also have a shared past as so many Naga people supported the British army during the battle of Kohima,” he said and also expressed excitement about “our shared history and our passion for education, sports and culture means for our future.”  

Stating that next year is year of cultural exchange between UK and India, he hoped that “it will have a special connection at the next year’s Hornbill festival.”  

Also lauding Chief Minister TR Zeliang for his vision to improve the education of the people of Nagaland and use culture to promote the state to the people all over the world, he said, “We will use this commitment to education and culture to deepen the long and special bonds of friendship between the people of Nagaland and the UK.



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