P Shilu Ao Memorial Indigenous Games opens at Longjang village

DIMAPUR — The two-day P Shilu Ao Memorial Indigenous Games Festival-cum-2nd Tug of War Championship began at Longjang village, Mokokchung, on Thursday with Atsungba Walling, ADC and Chief Executive Officer of the Mokokchung Municipal Council, as the special guest.

Speaking at the opening programme, Walling said Naga society had been strongly influenced by Western culture, and cautioned that only practices relevant and acceptable to local traditions should be adopted. He urged the gathering to remain mindful of not allowing external influences to dilute cultural heritage passed down through generations.

According to an update, Walling commended the Longjang Riongsanger Cultural Society for organising the festival with the objective of preserving and promoting indigenous culture. Walling added that various initiatives could be taken in future to honour P Shilu Ao, describing the first Chief Minister of Nagaland as a patriot who worked for the welfare of the Naga people.

Barrick of Longjang Village Council delivered the welcome address, while Longjang Senso Mungdang president M. Temjen Jamir also gave a short speech. The programme included a cultural song presented by the Longjang Riongsanger Cultural Society, followed by demonstrations of indigenous games.

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