Ongpangkong Kaketshir Mungdang held a cultural revival programme at Settsü village to preserve Ao heritage and inspire youth through culture, hard work and self-reliance.
MOKOKCHUNG — The rich cultural heritage of the Ongpangkong range took centre stage at a cultural revival programme organised by the Ongpangkong Kaketshir Mungdang (OKM) at Settsü village in Mokokchung district on Friday.
Held on the theme “Tsürabur Aongmetang,” the programme featured traditional songs, dances, cultural presentations and competitions aimed at promoting and preserving the cultural heritage of the Ao community among the younger generation.
Assistant Civil Supply Officer, Mokokchung, Allen Imchen, who was the chief guest, emphasised the importance of preserving cultural values while encouraging the youth to strive for success through their own efforts.
Imchen said the era of depending on politicians and seeking favours for government jobs was over, and urged the youth to achieve success through hard work, self-discipline and the proper use of their talents and skills.
Referring to Nagaland’s competitive examinations, he observed that the Ao community has become a minority among successful candidates and urged students to study diligently to improve their performance.
While acknowledging that not every educated person could secure a government job, he encouraged the youth to develop their abilities and pursue alternative avenues for success.
Speaking on culture, Imchen said the ancestors had bequeathed a rich cultural heritage that remained vital to the younger generation. Culture, he stated, permeates every aspect of human life.
He called upon the student community to work towards positive transformation in both cultural and practical spheres. He also noted that the Ongpangkong range is regarded as the eldest among the six ranges of Ao land.
Imchen encouraged young people to actively participate in cultural programmes, learn good values and conduct themselves as responsible citizens.
The programme opened with a cultural drama presented by the Settsü Students’ Union, followed by an Ongpangkong Naklu song rendered by the Aliba Students’ Union. The Longterok Senden Ungma group performed the Kongshir Yar dance, while the Longsalong Cultural Club, Mokokchung, presented a Masem song.
Special guest and Mokokchung Municipal Council Councillor I Tali Lkr, OKM president Tongpangmangyang Kichu, Ongpangkong Mungdang vice president Tinumangyang, AKM vice president Bendangnangba, OKM advisor Imliyanger and OKM cultural secretary Moanungsang also addressed the gathering.
As part of the cultural competitions, women competed in Aw-oh-wang/Oriri Atemb, Süben Ashiba, Anglong Naiba, Kulang Langtepba and Jang Asepba.
The men’s competitions included Ola Agütsütepba, Yong Araba, Mechiba, Meyong Atangba, Antsükang Atakba and Nü Tsüngshiba.