The Changki–Tai Ahom Cultural Connect rekindles centuries-old ties between Changki and Tai Ahoms.
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DIMAPUR — The Changki–Tai Ahom Cultural Connect opened on Monday at the Jumaba Amphitheatre, Changki village in Mokokchung district, with a call to revive and celebrate centuries-old ties between the Ao Naga community of Changki and the Tai Ahom people.
Organised by the Trailblazer Society, in collaboration with the North East Zone Cultural Centre (NEZCC), Ministry of Culture, and hosted by the Changki Village Council, the two-day programme brought together communities, scholars, and cultural performers in a spirit of unity and heritage, an update stated.
The event began with a symbolic gift exchange at the Changki village gate. The Tai Ahom delegation, led by Dr. Prasanna Gogoi, Director of NEZCC, offered a buffalo, a pig, local chickens, eggs and assorted fruits and vegetables, recalling the historic refuge given to Ahom King Doddapani by Changki villagers in 1679.
“Our future generation should know that our relationship and friendship remain strong from hereon. We will take these beautiful memories created in these two days and share with our Ahom family,” Dr. Gogoi affirmed.
Receiving the gifts, Tsupongtsungba Changkiri, Chairman, Village Council Changki, responded, “This is a historic moment to forge our friendship and keep this legacy alive for our younger generations.”
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The Changki delegation reciprocated with household items, local produce, and traditional tools, symbolising reciprocity and enduring bonds.
The day unfolded with a traditional ritual interaction between elders of both communities, followed by a unity march from Changki Sungkum to the venue.
In his greetings, Dr. Gogoi described the programme as a conscious effort to rekindle historic ties and envisioned making the Cultural Connect an annual feature involving dialogue, research, and youth participation.
Delivering a solidarity message, Adela Moa, Director of Art & Culture, Government of Nagaland, highlighted the importance of cultural platforms in rebuilding bridges, strengthening livelihoods, and safeguarding indigenous knowledge systems for future generations.
The day’s cultural highlights included Mangko Yimrong Malu Waromung (Warriors returning from battle with severed heads), Longkama Cultural Club,
Yimjenkimong (Warriors’ victory return dance), Changki Orija Cultural Club (peace songs), Society for Tai Ahom Resurgence (deer and peacock dance), and indigenous Changki game Hekko.
The evening session featured a traditional attire presentation and echoes of harmony, a collaborative performance by the Changki Choir, Dimapur Ensemble, and STAR Band Assam, blending traditional and contemporary sounds.
The event drew over 300 invitees, including delegations from Waromung, Yimjenkimong, and Tai Ahom scholars, and more than 500 local participants, reflecting the enthusiasm and scale of the cultural revival.
“The Changki–Tai Ahom Cultural Connect continues on February 10, with further cultural exchanges aimed at deepening historical understanding and strengthening inter-community ties.” The update stated.