Governor advises students to be custodian of heritage

DIMAPUR — Nagaland Governor, La. Ganesan, on Tuesday called upon young minds to delve into the depths of their cultural roots and empower themselves to be the custodians of heritage.

The governor stated this during the inaugural programme of a two-week workshop on ‘Hindustan vocal, Kuchipudi dance, Naga folk music and craft,’ jointly organised by SPIC MACAY and the National Institute of Technology (NIT), Nagaland, which got underway at Chümoukedima Town Council (CTC) hall.

Ganesan, who was the chief guest of the event, stated that India, with its diverse and rich heritage, offers an abundance of artistic expressions that encompass not just the visual or the tactile but also the profound and the sublime that touches the souls, stated a DIPR report.

“Hindustani music and Kuchipudi dance are treasures of our national cultural heritage that have enchanted and enthralled audiences worldwide for years. They are not just art forms but are integral to our country’s cultural landscape and goes beyond the barriers of language and geography,” the governor said.

Similarly, he stated that Naga folk music and crafts are not just expressions of creativity but they also carry testimonies of the rich cultural history and legacy of Nagaland. He added that they are an integral part of identity, showcasing the traditions and unwavering spirit.

“The folklore, the music and the craftsmanship offer a glimpse into the soul of Nagaland, reflecting the harmony between mankind and nature that is so characteristic of our way of life,” he added.

He mentioned that the amalgamation of those diverse art forms was a testament to the unity in diversity that forms the cornerstone of a great nation. He stated that despite varied backgrounds, it is bound by a common thread of humanity and artistic expression.

The governor stated that the workshop is not just an opportunity to learn and appreciate the art forms but also a platform to interact, exchange ideas and foster new relationships among the participants coming from different walks of life. In this regard, he encouraged the young minds to delve into the depths of cultural roots and empowers themselves to be the custodians of heritage.

In addition, Ganesha stated that music and the arts also hold a profound power in fostering peace, unity and national integration, serving as a universal language that transcends boundaries, whether they are cultural, linguistic, or geographical.

“Through music and the arts, communities can express shared values and aspirations, laying the foundation for a collective identity. This is crucial for national integration, especially in a multi-ethnic, multi-cultural nation like ours, where finding common ground is essential for peace and unity,” Ganesan said.

In conclusion, he congratulated SPIC MACAY and NIT Nagaland for envisioning and bringing to life such a meaningful event. He further urged all to learn, share and contribute to keeping the vibrant legacy of culture alive for the future generations and be ambassadors of heritage by promoting unity, harmony and respect through the universal language of art and culture.

Highlights of the inaugural programme included performance of violin (Carnatic) by recipient of Padmashree awardees and Sangeetha Kalanidhi, A Kanyakumari; ‘Vatapi ganapatim bhaje’ in Hamsadhwani raga; ‘Pancharatnam;’ songs by Subbulaxmi; Bhajans such as ‘Raghupati Raghava’ and ‘Payoji Maine Ram Ratan Dhan Payo.’