Governor’s Award for arts, music and literature held at Raj Bhavan

DIMAPUR — The ‘At Home’ cum Governor’s Award for distinction in the field of Arts, Music and Literature was held at Dr. Imkongliba Hall, Raj Bhavan in Kohima on Thursday.

Nagaland Governor, La. Ganesan, gave away the awards to three persons for their contributions to the state’s cultural heritage during the ceremony.

This year, the Governor’s Award for Arts was conferred to Temjen Aier and Throngkiuba Yimchungru, while NK Naga and Lidi Kro-u Society received the award for their contribution in the field of music.

Addressing the gathering, the governor emphasised the importance of the day, reminding everyone of the sacrifices made by India’s freedom fighters. He urged the citizens to embrace what Prime Minister Narendra Modi has termed as “Amrit Kaal”– a period of renewal and resurgence and also re-imagine the future.

He stated that the vision of a developed India (Viksit Bharat) is within grasp and called for dedication, innovation and unity from all.

He also highlighted the role of youth in shaping this vision and urged them to channel their energy and patriotism towards nation-building.

“Embrace the spirit of patriotism not just as love for the motherland, but as a commitment to contribute positively to your country,” he said.

Ganesan noted that art, music and literature are not merely forms of expression but vital threads that add colours to India’s diverse heritage.

“They inspire, unite and offer solace, forging connections that transcend barriers,” he added while congratulating the recipients.

The governor stated that the awards stood as a testament to the vibrant cultural landscape of Nagaland and the exceptional creativity that flourishes within society. He expressed hope that the initiative would motivate countless others to pursue their dreams and passion and bring laurels to the state and the country.

“The contemporary generation and the generation after them must continue to preserve the core of this rich cultural identity,” he said and urged the Naga artists, musicians and intellectuals to harness the creativity and richness of their culture and display them to the rest of the world.

The additional chief secretary and finance commissioner, Sentiyanger Imchen, highlighted the significance of the Governor’s Awards, instituted in 2003 to recognise and celebrate outstanding contributions in those fields.

He said that the Naga people’s strength and resilience have allowed them, by and large, to preserve their rich cultural heritage.

“Today, we are proud custodians of a diverse range of art, customs and traditions. However, no society is static and will face the challenge of change. Therefore, as our society progresses, our unique folk arts must evolve while retaining their essence,” Imchen said.

Meanwhile, minister of Roads and Bridges, G Kaito Aye, said that Nagaland is well known for her rich artistic heritage and added that the diverse art forms are integral to Naga culture.

“Today we have a greater tendency to relegate our cultural values to the backseat, which is detrimental to our society and, if allowed to happen, may even lead to decline of life itself,” Aye said.

Noting the immense creative potential within Naga society, he said that the Governor’s Awards serve as a platform for showcasing Naga artistic talents to the world and encouraged artistic growth and development.

The minister congratulated the 2024 awardees, affirming the government’s ongoing commitment to promoting and nurturing the arts in Nagaland.