April 12th, 2025: 56th Cultural cum Literary Day on 12th April, 2025, themed “Celebrating Ethnicity & Diversity”, Kohima College

Kohima College celebrated its 56th Cultural cum Literary Day on 12th April 2025, under the theme “Celebrating Ethnicity & Diversity.” The programme brought together a vibrant array of cultural, literary, and artistic events that highlighted the rich ethnic tapestry and creative spirit of the student community.

The event was chaired by Ms. Chalienuo Metha, followed by the Welcome Address delivered by Mr. Shungthai Angh, Cultural Secretary of the Kohima College Students’ Council (KCSC). Associate Professor Tenoseno Angami from the Department of History invoked blessings through the Invocation.

A series of cultural and literary competitions were held throughout the day, including the War Cry Competition, Debate Competition, and Folk Song Competition, each showcasing the unique traditions, perspectives, and artistic strengths of the participants.

The Guest of Honour, Dr. Meyisangla Longkumer, Joint Director, Tribal Affairs Department, Government of Nagaland, delivered an inspiring address, emphasising the importance of preserving cultural heritage while embracing diversity. She encouraged students to nurture empathy, pursue continuous learning, and strive for excellence in an increasingly competitive global environment. Dr. Longkumer also made a generous contribution to the Kohima College Students’ Council Fund.

Additional highlights of the day included the Folk Dance Competition, Extempore Speech Competition, Signature Dish Competition, and an impressive Ethnic Visual Show that featured the traditional attire of various tribes.

The winners in the various events were as follows:

Winners List

Painting Competition

  • 1st Prize: Jongtie P. Khiamniungan
  • 2nd Prize: Sinisha Kent
  • 3rd Prize: Theguoneizo Rutza

Essay Competition

  • 1st Prize: Jetei S
  • 2nd Prize: Wati Lkr
  • 3rd Prize: Thejasenuo Metsieo

Poetry Competition

  • 1st Prize: Samlam
  • 2nd Prize: Sekhumla M
  • 3rd Prize: Vilu Pohina

Debate Competition

  • 1st Prize: Mülünielü Sakhamo
  • 2nd Prize: Joel Solo
  • 3rd Prize: Yukhase H. Jingru

Extempore Speech

  • 1st Prize: Opeichipen Chang
  • 2nd Prize: Merübeinuo Zumu
  • 3rd Prize: Bowe Elah

War Cry Competition

  • 1st Prize: Senyamo Kath

Folk Song Competition

  • 1st Prize: Sangtam Union
  • 2nd Prize: Chakhesang Union

Folk Dance Competition

  • 1st Prize: Zeliang Union
  • 2nd Prize: Rengma Union

Signature Dish Competition

  • Winner: Lotha Union

The programme concluded with the Vote of Thanks delivered by Mr. Sitenlo Kath, Assistant Cultural Secretary, followed by the Closing Prayer led by Mr. Devo Thisa, President of the Evangelical Union, Kohima College Kohima.

The 56th Cultural cum Literary Day stands as a testament to the college’s commitment to celebrating cultural identity, fostering student talent, and promoting unity in diversity.

March 1, 2024: 55th Cultural cum Literary Day 2024, themed “Westernisation is a Threat to Indigenous Culture”, Kohima College

Kohima College, Kohima, celebrated its 55th Cultural cum Literary Day with great enthusiasm and participation, centred around the meaningful theme “Cultural Mosaic.” The event brought together students, faculty members, and invited guests in a vibrant celebration of cultural heritage, diversity, and literary excellence.

The programme was chaired by Ms. Menuolhoulie Dahou, who warmly guided the proceedings. The Special Guest of the Day, Ms. Megovono Usou, Head of the English Department, Kohima College, graced the occasion with her distinguished presence. The event commenced with an Invocation Prayer by Dr. Ziuziu Iheilung, setting a reflective and inspiring tone for the day.

In her Welcome Address, Ms. Khrieletuonuo Mere, Social & Cultural Secretary of the Kohima College Students’ Council (KCSC), highlighted the importance of embracing diversity through cultural performances and literary engagement. She emphasised the role of such platforms in fostering unity, understanding, and creativity.

The cultural segment opened with a mesmerising Folk Fusion performance by the KCK Choir, which beautifully blended traditional and contemporary elements. This was followed by an engaging cowboy flute recital by Sogwalo Seb, adding a refreshing musical dimension to the celebrations.

A major highlight of the programme was the Folk Song Competition, where students displayed exceptional vocal talent rooted in indigenous traditions. This was followed by a stimulating Debate Competition that provided a valuable space for intellectual exchange and critical thought, reflecting the academic vibrancy of the college.

In her address, the Chief Guest Ms. Megovono Usou delivered an insightful and inspiring speech, underscoring the significance of cultural heritage in shaping identity, values, and social cohesion. She encouraged students to appreciate the richness of their traditions while continuing to grow academically and artistically.

The festivities continued with a lively Folk Dance Competition and an Ethnic Show, both of which showcased the colourful diversity and vibrant cultural expressions of various communities.

As the celebrations drew to a close, Mr. W. Sorito Yimchunger, Assistant Social & Cultural Secretary of KCSC, offered heartfelt gratitude to all participants, organisers, faculty members, and supporters for contributing to the success of the event. The programme concluded with a Benediction by Vithitolu, bringing an enriching and meaningful day to a reverent close.

The 55th Cultural cum Literary Day stood as a testament to Kohima College’s commitment to promoting cultural pride, literary excellence, and unity in diversity.

September 19, 2023: Cultural Club attended the screening of the Documentary Film “Where Cotton Flowers Grow” as well as explored the “Mini Exhibition-Cum-Sale”, Organised by the Directorate of Art & Culture, Govt. of Nagaland

The Cultural Club of Kohima College participated in the Screening of the Documentary Film “Where Cotton Flowers Grow” along with the Mini Exhibition-cum-Sale organised by the Directorate of Art & Culture, Government of Nagaland, on 19th September 2023. The programme was held at the Conference Hall, Directorate of Art & Culture, Bayavü Hill, Kohima.

A total of 15 students, accompanied by three faculty members from the Cultural Club, attended the event, which aimed to promote cultural understanding, artistic appreciation, and awareness of traditional craftsmanship in Nagaland.

The documentary “Where Cotton Flowers Grow” offered a compelling visual journey into the intricate art of cotton cultivation, spinning, and weaving—a sustainable Indigenous practice deeply rooted in Naga heritage. Through vivid storytelling, the film highlighted the craftsmanship of local artisans, the cultural symbolism embedded in handwoven textiles, and the significance of preserving traditional knowledge amidst rapid modernization. It captured the live of 4 Khiamniungan cotton weavers from Sanglao village of Noklak district.

The Mini Exhibition-cum-Sale further complemented the screening by showcasing a range of traditional Naga handicrafts, textiles, artefacts, and locally produced goods. Students had the opportunity to interact with artisans, learn about traditional weaving techniques, and observe the vibrant diversity of Indigenous material culture. The exhibition not only promoted local craftsmanship but also provided a platform for artisans to market their products and share the stories behind their creations.

The participation of the Cultural Club enriched students’ understanding of Nagaland’s artistic heritage and contributed to their experiential learning beyond the classroom. Events such as these reinforce the relevance of cultural preservation and provide young learners with meaningful exposure to the state’s creative traditions.

The Cultural Club expresses its appreciation to the Directorate of Art & Culture for organising the programme and for fostering greater cultural awareness among the youth.

March 11, 2023: 54th Cultural cum Literary Day, themed “Cultural Integrity”, Kohima College

Kohima College celebrated its 54th Cultural cum Literary Day on 11th March 2023 under the theme “Cultural Integrity.” The programme was organised by the Kohima College Students’ Council (KCSC) in collaboration with the Cultural Cell, KCK, and brought together students, faculty, and invited guests in a vibrant showcase of cultural expression and intellectual reflection.

The celebration featured Dr. Theyiesinuo Keditsu, Assistant Professor, Department of English, KCK, as the Speaker of the Day. In her insightful address, Dr. Keditsu emphasised the need to research, revive, reject, and reinterpret — the 4Rs — of traditional culture. She highlighted the dangers of uncritically associating everything from the past as regressive while equating modernity with progress. Instead, she urged students to reflect on essential questions:

  • What do we want to keep?
  • What do we want to do away with?
  • What can we conserve by modifying?

Dr. Keditsu encouraged an approach that harmonises the best of tradition and modernity to build inclusive practices rooted in ethical and moral values. She further stressed that understanding and respecting one’s own culture forms the foundation for appreciating the cultures of others. Such programmes, she noted, serve as important platforms for nurturing empathy, bridging differences, and fostering a shared sense of belonging.

The event began with a Welcome Address delivered by Shri Keneilesa Neikha, Vice Principal, KCK. Ms. Meribeni, Girls’ Welfare Secretary, gave a short but meaningful speech in commemoration of International Women’s Day, underscoring the significance of gender awareness and empowerment. The Invocation Prayer was pronounced by Mr. Gwanyele Kent, after which the programme proceeded under the able chairmanship of Mr. Sameer Khati.

A variety of cultural presentations enlivened the programme, reflecting the rich ethnic diversity of the student community. Performances included:

  • A Cultural Dance by the Zeliangrong Troops
  • A Flute Performance by Sogwalo Seb
  • An Indigenous Song by the Chakhesang students of KCK
  • A Folk Fusion Song by Arola & Akhrienuo
  • An Ethnic Fashion Show, led by Thejavizo Venuh

The event concluded with a heartfelt Vote of Thanks delivered by Mr. Iteibuibo, Social & Cultural Secretary, KCSC, who acknowledged the contributions of students, faculty, and organisers in making the day a memorable success.

The 54th Cultural cum Literary Day stood as a meaningful reminder of the importance of cultural integrity, shared identity, and the collective responsibility to preserve and reinterpret heritage in ways that enrich the present and inspire the future.