Glimpses from the cultural day celebration at Patkai Christian College (Autonomous).
DIMAPUR, APRIL 6 (MExN): Patkai Christian College (Autonomous) celebrated its Annual Cultural Day on April 4 under the theme “Interweaving Cultural Threads.”
The event opened at dawn with a “Mekhala Marathon,” a women-led run that featured participants in traditional attire representing different cultures and states.
Dr. Inato Y. Shikhu, a senior fellow at the Centre for Cultural Resources and Training (CCRT) under the Union Ministry of Culture, served as the special guest. In his keynote address, he called for greater awareness of cultural heritage and warned against the perils of cultural appropriation.
“The foundation of interweaving cultural threads starts from possessing traditional knowledge,” Shikhu said. “Interweaving of culture begins with language and knowledge of our culture – it’s a must.”
Organized by the Post Graduate Students' Welfare Council and the Students' Union of Patkai Christian College, the formal session also included prayers and opening remarks underscoring the event’s core message of unity in diversity.
Following the formal proceedings, the campus transformed into a living museum of tradition. Students competed in folk songs, dances, dramas, and storytelling, while others took part in traditional sports and games such as winnowing, hen hunting, fire making, obstacle racing, pork fat and King Chilli eating, and Naga wrestling.
An ethnic fashion show showcased colorful traditional attire from various communities and states, while themed mobile photography contests were also held. Temporary morungs — traditional dormitories or pavilions — were also constructed, offering ethnic food, artifacts, and glimpses into community-specific customs.
