Kohima Science College hosts its fifth annual Origin Fest, celebrating cultural heritage and traditional games.
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DIMAPUR — Kohima Science College (Autonomous), Jotsoma (KSCJ), celebrated the fifth edition of its annual Origin Fest on the theme “Rooted yet rising” on April 10 with Bodeno S Colo, Commissioner and Secretary of Art and Culture, as the special guest.
Dr. Temjenwabang, Principal of KSCJ, delivered the welcome address, greeting the audience of students, teachers, and representatives from the Elpida Skill Academy. According to a press release, he highlighted the evolving role of cultural heritage in education.
“The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 has placed significant importance on the Indian traditional knowledge system,” he said, stating this as an innovative initiative by the Department of Education to ensure that ancient wisdom is aligned with modern educational standards.
Furthermore, he talked about how traditions have become a vital part of the learning process and how it represents a shared heritage across generations.
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The special guest, Bodeno S Colo, in her address, stressed the importance of preserving and promoting cultural heritage, stating that folk songs, dances, traditions, and oral histories are not merely artistic expressions but living representations of identity and community life.
Referring to the theme, she highlighted the need to remain grounded in tradition while adapting to changing times. “Our folk songs, our dances, our traditions, our texts, and our history are not merely expressions of art," she said. “They are the living archives of what we are as a people in a rapidly changing world.”
She lauded the efforts of the college in organising such a platform and commended the students for their participation, creativity, and commitment to keeping traditions alive. She noted that the performances and activities reflected both cultural pride and a sense of innovation among the younger generation.
Further, the speaker informed the gathering that the Department of Art and Culture had brought a collection of books regarding traditions, history, and art to be donated to the college library.
Following the formal programme, the cultural fest continued with a series of activities, including folk dances and songs representing different communities such as Tenyimia, Ao, Kuki, Lotha, Gorkha, and Sümi, along with performances by students from eastern Nagaland.
The event also included traditional displays like a war cry competition and interactive segments such as an open mic. In addition, several indigenous games and activities, including stilt walking, fire-making, winnowing, long jump, top-spinning, tug of war, and pole climbing, were organised to showcase the lifestyle and skills of earlier generations.