Reviving Roots: Nagaland hosts first indigenous Christmas concert

December 14, 2024 6 Views No Comment

Morung Express News
Dimapur | December 14

Nagaland witnessed a symbolic cultural celebration with the inaugural Joy to the World—An Indigenous Christmas Concert on December 12. A first-of-its-kind event which showcased a blend of Christmas traditions and Indigenous music, the concert was held at the Afuko College of Music & Indigenous Arts(ACMIA), Platinum College, Aküvüto, Thahekhu, and featured an impressive line-up of celebrated artistes from Nagaland and beyond.

The event’s international highlight was Edgar Macapili, a renowned folk and sacred music artiste from Taiwan, accompanied by his wife, Shu Chuan Wang. According to Rev Hojevi Kappo, founder and director of Nagagenous and ACMIA, the concert marked a historic moment for Nagaland, bringing together people from diverse backgrounds to celebrate cultural and musical unity.

The event was graced by G Kaito Aye, Minister for PWD Roads & Bridges, as the special guest, and KT Sukhalu, Advisor for Food & Civil Supplies, as the guest of honour.

The evening featured stellar performances by groups and individuals, including Nagagenous, Supu Lejo, Edgar and Shu Chuan Wang, Hojevi Kappo, Cantamus Choir, NK Naga, Suli-Lejo, Pitoho Chopy, Pretty Rhythm, Ashito & Daughter, Alovi & Vivi, Hotolu Yeptho, Tokhuli Yepthomi, Mathung Odyuo and the Afuko Choir.

The grand finale was a powerful, collective rendition of “Joy to the World” by all the artistes and the audience.

Reviving Indigenous Culture
The Afuko College of Music and Indigenous Arts is an Indigenous art training and performing centre under the Platinum College, WSBAK which began this year as an academic community. While offering a Bachelor of Music in the Indigenous arts under Nagaland University, ACMIA also incorporates western musical training into its curriculum. The school aims to revive and renew the rich heritage of Naga music and culture, which has been overshadowed in recent decades.

Rev Kappo expressed gratitude for the event’s success, highlighting ACMIA’s mission to train students not only in performance but also in composing and creating Indigenous instruments. “We want to rediscover our culture and heritage at a time when the people are invested in western civilisation, whereas our lives are different.” Rev Kappo was optimistic that the centre will be pivotal in promoting and reviving the traditional art of the Nagas. “This is just the beginning of our journey to renew our society through music and culture, and also through language which is unique in and of itself,” he remarked. He looked forward to more students joining the next academic session.

Global Connection
Edgar Macapili, a composer, conductor, and folk singer, expressed his appreciation for being part of this historic occasion.

Representing both the Philippines and Taiwan, he emphasised the importance of preserving unique cultural identities in the face of globalisation. “This event fosters cultural exchange and celebrates the spirit of Christmas through unity in diversity and I am greatly honoured to be a part of it,” he said.

Rev Kappo added, “We are committed to connecting with other cultures worldwide, using music as a peaceful form of communication. By valuing and appreciating our heritage, we can transform society while fostering love, peace, and reconciliation.”

The event organisers underscored the deeper significance of Christmas. “The true meaning of celebrating Christ’s birth is about embracing peace and reconciliation in a troubled world,” Rev Kappo noted. Edgar Macapili echoed these sentiments, highlighting that in diversity, unity can flourish through arts and music.

Rev Kappo maintained that the Indigenous Christmas Concert will be a stepping stone to greater collaborations and a renewed appreciation for the unique heritage of Nagaland. Through this initiative which will likely be an annual event, the college hopes to inspire younger generations to value their roots while embracing the global community.

During the event, Rev Dr Phughoto Sema, Executive Secretary of Western Sümi Baptist Akukuhou Kuqhakulu (WSBAK), inaugurated the concert with a prayer, while Abokali Jimomi hosted the event. Vivi Achumi delivered the vote of thanks and Rev Phushito Chishi, Evangelist, WSBAK, gave the benediction.