Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas Celebrated at Nagaland University
Lumami, Nagaland : Nagaland University hosted a vibrant program on November 22, 2024, to celebrate Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas at the I. Ihoshe Kinimi Hall, Lumami. Under the theme of honoring tribal heritage and contributions, the event brought together scholars, students, and dignitaries, focusing on the significance of tribal pride and identity.
The program commenced with the Nagaland University Anthem, setting an energetic tone for the day. Professor Athungo Ovung, Director of the Tribal Research Centre, chaired the event, welcoming the attendees and discussing the challenges faced by tribal societies as they navigate between traditional and digital worlds. He also elaborated on the importance of Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas as a day to honor tribal communities’ invaluable contributions to society.
In his opening remarks, Dr. Yamsani Srikanth, Assistant Professor at the Tribal Research Centre, emphasized the importance of elevating tribal communities in an elite-driven society. He lauded the Government of India for recognizing tribal voices through such events, stressing the need to celebrate unsung tribal heroes and their environmental stewardship. “The inclusion of tribal perspectives brings unity to the diversity of the Indian state,” Dr. Srikanth remarked.
The event included the screening of a short documentary that highlighted the untold stories of tribal heroes from Northeast India, shedding light on their remarkable but forgotten contributions to the nation.
Prof. Jagadish K. Patnaik, Vice-Chancellor of Nagaland University, presented the prizes for an essay competition held in conjunction with the celebration. During his address, he underlined the importance of reconnecting with traditional roots. “The identity of tribal communities cannot be undermined. We must preserve the cultural markers tied to our practices,” he said. He spoke of the rich diversity of the Naga tribes, stressing the need to protect these identities from external influences. Reflecting on colonial impact, Prof. Patnaik urged, “We must protect our culture and identity, never compromising them for anything.”
The cultural aspect of the event was enriched by a performance of the folk song Lejole by postgraduate students, adding a lively and traditional touch to the celebration.
The keynote address, Cry of the Wilderness: Tribal Freedom Movements in Northeast India, was delivered by Prof. Jangkhomang Guite from the Department of History, Nagaland University. Prof. Guite commended the Government of India for acknowledging the significant role of tribal communities, noting, “This is not just a celebration but a recognition of our rights, our voice, and our identity.” He also challenged the misrepresentation of tribal narratives, highlighting various tribal resistance movements, including the Anglo-Khasi War, Anglo-Garo War, and Anglo-Naga War, among others. “Such collective resistance reflects solidarity and unity among the tribes,” he stated.
In his address, Prof. Guite advocated for recognizing tribal communities’ relationship with nature, promoting the concept of “ecological civilization.” He concluded, “The cry of the wilderness should be heard through the voices of the tribal people in the region.”
The program, attended by statutory officers, faculty, research scholars, and postgraduate students, ended with a vote of thanks from Dr. Lobeno Mozhui, Assistant Professor, Department of Zoology. The Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas celebration at Nagaland University served as a powerful reminder of the rich heritage, resilience, and invaluable contributions of tribal communities. It highlighted the ongoing need to preserve and recognize their identity and cultural pride.
The event was organized by a dedicated committee, with Dr. Yamsani Srikanth as Convener, Mr. Peter Ki as Secretary, and other faculty members.
