Eminent Naga folk artiste Zachünü Keyho passes away at 84

KOHIMA — Renowned Naga folk artiste and composer, guru Zachünü Keyho, passed away on Wednesday at the age of 84.

A native of Khulazu Basa village in Phek district, Keyho dedicated his life to the promotion and preservation of Naga folk music by conducting extensive research in the field.

He was recognised for his contributions with the prestigious Sangeet Natak Akademi Puraskar for folk music in 2023. The title ‘guru’ was bestowed upon him by the North East Zone Cultural Centre (NEZCC) in 2007. He was also one of the 11 recipients of the Task Force for Music and Arts (TaFMA) Excellence Award in 2023.

Keyho founded the Chakhesang Cultural Research Institute in 1994 and composed over 100 folk songs, publishing two books on the subject.

Known for his cheerful disposition, wisdom, and peacemaking qualities, he was also involved in various other fields, including founding the Phek District Farmers’ Union and was the longest-serving president of the UDF Party for the 18-Chozuba Assembly Constituency.

At his funeral held on Thursday, he was remembered for his unwavering dedication to culture, farming, and folk music, as well as his sincerity, hard work, and law-abiding nature.

His mortal remains were laid to rest outside his home in Khulazu Basa village.

Meanwhile, the Sangeet Natak Akademi, under the Ministry of Culture, mourned the death of the eminent Chakhesang Folk Musician and Sangeet Natak Akademi Awardee. The Akademi and its associated bodies also extended condolences to the bereaved family.