Minister KG Kenye, along with MLA, Namri Nchang, and others during the third day of Chega GaadiLamsim Ngyi.
Peren, October 31 (MExN): Minister of Power KG Kenye on Saturday called for harmonising Christian teachings with the preservation of indigenous cultural values, stressing that faith and culture should complement each other in shaping a morally upright and culturally conscious younger generation.
Addressing the third day of the Chega Gaadi/Lamsim Ngyi-cum-Mini Hornbill Festival 2026 at Beikingpuichak in Peren district headquarters, Kenye expressed delight at the enthusiastic participation of both young and elderly members of the community, stated a DIPR report.
He highlighted the importance of culture as a cornerstone of society, stating that it embodies the social, political and historical values that define a community’s identity, and emphasised the need to preserve the rich cultural heritage and pass it on to future generations.
The minister expressed gratitude to God for the district being spared from major natural calamities, while acknowledging the blessings of a bountiful harvest and the opportunity to celebrate the festival in an atmosphere of peace and happiness.
The programme was hosted by MLA and Chairman, DPDB Peren, Namri Nchang. The Tribal Guests included Vice-President of the Angami Public Organisation, Vikehelie Victor Khawakhrie, and President of the Chakhesang Public Organisation, Vezuhu Keyho.
In his address, Namri Nchang, the Chief Host of the festival, emphasised that festivals should not merely be celebrated through outward festivities but with an understanding of their true cultural significance. Recalling how their forefathers celebrated festivals with discipline, love, unity and togetherness, he urged the people to uphold the same spirit.
He also expressed concern over the younger generation’s declining use of their mother tongue, stating that even some members of the Zeliangrong community are unable to speak their own dialect, and urged parents to encourage their children to practise their mother tongue from an early age.
Khawakhrie highlighted the significance of festivals as a platform for promoting unity, strengthening friendships and fostering togetherness among people from different walks of life, and appreciated the participation of different tribes in their colourful traditional attires. He also emphasised the importance of preserving the common language, Tenyidie, and encouraged the younger generation to promote it as a means of strengthening cultural bonds.
Keyho stated that Chega Gaadi and Lamsim Ngyi reflect the rich cultural heritage, customs and values of the Zeliangrong community, and highlighted the festivals’ significance in promoting thanksgiving, unity and the preservation of ancestral traditions.
The programme was compered by Namgwangheile and commenced with a welcome address by President of Zeliangrong Baudi (N), K Francis Zeliang, followed by cultural presentations, including Koksui by Peren Village and performances from Samziuram Village, Nzauna Village and the Kachari Tribe. It concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by President of Zeme Council Nagaland, Ernest Sephe.
