Arunachal Pradesh Governor, Dr B D Mishra on Saturday urged the people of the North-east to make concerted efforts to bring ‘absolute peace and tranquility in the region.’
The Governor said this while addressing the gathering during his visit to the Hornbill Festival at the Naga Heritage Village at Kisama in Nagaland.
“The Hornbill Festival showcases the North-east’s rich cultural diversity, exotic locations, pristine green environment, and hospitable communities,” the Governor said
Saying that the hornbill is the state bird of Arunachal Pradesh, he said celebrating the festival brings the people of Arunachal Pradesh and Nagaland together. He extended an invitation to the people of Nagaland to visit Arunachal Pradesh ‘for promotion of cultural exchange,’ and invited the youths of Nagaland to come to Arunachal Pradesh for studies.
Recalling his association with Nagaland, the Governor informed that, after getting selected for the Indian Army, he received his training with the Kohima Company at the Indian Military Academy in 1960, and did two tenures in Nagaland, in 1964 and 1967.
While in Nagaland, he said, his south Indian troops learned about the Naga culture and dance and arts, which they presented back home in Kerala and earned appreciation of the people there.
“This cultural bond has removed the barrier in the mindset of the people of other states, and they now appreciate the North-east as an aesthetic land,” the Governor further added.
The day witnessed cultural songs, dances and other activities performed by various cultural troupes.
Highlights of the day’s cultural events themed ‘Culturally Yours included Unghang Asho (folk Song) by Phom Cultural Troupe, Shamyim Pe (marriage ceremony) by Konyak Cultural Troupe, ‘cultivating song’ by Chang Cultural Troupe, ‘Kiyi Arba’ by Ao Cultural Troupe, ‘Amikukula’ by Sumi Cultural Troupe, ‘Sauai Lhun’ by Kuki Cultural Troupe, ‘Zimthao’ by Khiamniungan Cultural Troupe, ‘Gogripa or Chagripa’ (wrestling) by Garo Cultural Troupe, and ‘Shakvudow’ (folk song/dance) by Pochury Cultural Troupe.