First Naga tailoring and allied trade show underway

KOHIMA — With an objective to encourage the Nagas in taking up tailoring, designing and allied trade as a profession, a two-day first edition of the ‘Naga tailoring and allied trade show’ began at NBCC Convention Centre in Kohima on Friday.

The general secretary of Nagaland Baptist Church Council (NBCC), Rev Dr Zelhou Keyho, inaugurated the event. 

Organised by the Association of Naga Tailors (ANT), the event was conceived to discourage the Naga youngsters from seeking jobs in other cities or states. It aims to assist in making Naga clothing manufacturers and exporters of ready-made garments by 2039.

Inaugurating the two-day event, Rev. Keyho encourage the participants pursue their passion saying, “We need to embrace our vision, dreams and carry them forward.”

He went on to add that if they have something in their heart and mind and want to do it, they need to just do it.

Neikhozoto Savino, principal of Savino Tailoring Institute, shared that he started tailoring when he was in class 6. When he entered into this field, it dawned on him that it was the non-Nagas, who tailor all the dresses for what we wear.

Upon realising that locals knows nothing about tailoring, he took it upon himself to teach and train them so they can make dresses for their people. Now, most of the people he trained are employed, Savino said.

He also spoke on the importance of gaining basic knowledge and shared that people used to request for buying certificates without getting trained. However, he said he used to decline such request. 

Prominent Naga designers also spoke during plenary sessions and workshops, while on-the-spot tailor competitions was also conducted. Home-based, start-ups and successful Naga designers and tailors displayed and sell their self-made products. The event will culminate on Saturday.