Correspondent
KOHIMA, MAY 29
The 75th year jubilee celebration programme of Ura Academy began here Thursday evening at the NBCC Convention Centre, Kohima. Commemorating the event, 75 bulbs were lit up by 75 noted contributors (spouse/family member, in the cases the contributors were unable to attend the programme, or have passed away) to the vernacular literature.
Speaking on the occasion, Nagaland Legislative Assembly speaker, Chotisüh Sazo said language is something that differentiates people but at the same time unites them. On this line, he feels that the Tenyimi people can build understanding and cohesion through the Tenyidie language. Sazo remarked that in the olden days, many people outside the Tenyimia community could learn and speak Tenyidie, but the advent of Nagamese hampered the usage of the native language.
He urged the Tenyimi people to use Tenyidie as a household language and also encourage others to learn it.
The NLA speaker also congratulated the Ura Academy, Kohima for preserving and strengthening the Tenyidie for the past 75 years and expressed hope that it would continue to inspire others to learn more about vernacular language.
Sazo also released 22 books on Naga literature on the occasion.
Rev. Beilieü Shüya, a pioneer of Tenyidie language called upon the Tenyimi people to honour and use their first language- Tenyidie. Stating that Tenyidie is one of the most beautiful languages, the reverend observed that the language sounds like a soothing music. She also said that the Nagas are blessed with beautiful land with rich resources and language which they need to take pride in.
Earlier in the afternoon, Ura Academy president, Dr. Shürhozelie unveiled the jubilee monolith in the premises of Ura College of Teachers’ Education, Kohima (Old Kohima College). In his greetings on the occasion, Dr Shürhozelie said Ura Academy is for all Tenyimi family. He also urged the Tenyimia brethren to use Tenyidie.
Highlights of the inaugural programme include recitation of 75 poems (Geizo Pemo Kephrü) by Kehodepi Rhütso, performances by Native Harmony, jubilee choir and Kewhimia Zhavipfüko Krotho.
