Nagaland: 6th Raj Bhavan edition of Hand Shake Concert enthralls visitors

Our Correspondent

Kohima, Dec. 2 (EMN): The 6th Raj Bhavan edition of Hand Shake Concert presented by Rattle and Hum Society and supported by the government of Nagaland was held on Friday featuring numerous groups of artistes from Nagaland and Manipur states.

Christ The King choir, the winner of 1st Nagaland Catholic Choral Fiesta, opened the musical evening with ‘Baba Yetu’ (The Lord’s Prayer in Swahili) followed by performances from ‘Voices of Hope’ led by Nise Meruno.

Rhythms of Manipur, was up next in the stage to enthrall the crowd with cultural folk music with female dancing drummers.

After Tetseo Sisters and duet by Mengu Soukhrie and Kenei Chale in the line up rendered their presentations, MAK Ensemble wrapped up the one-hour event with Christmas Medley at Raj Bhavan.

Abu Metha, Advisor to Chief Minister of Nagaland, speaking on the occasion, maintained that Rattle and Hum Society promote their culture and heritage within the country and different parts of the world.

He stated that their aspiration is to create better appreciation of India’s vast diversity and rich culture to the global community, adding that they have organised different editions of the Handshake Concert in 11 countries so far with a theme of international edition.

Metha also apprised that they held the concert in different states of the country, briefing on how they conduct the Raj Bhavan edition with the support of the governor and with the guidance of the chief minister of Nagaland.

He claimed that hundreds of musicians and artistes including cultural ambassadors have got the opportunity to perform and have gone on to be recognised to perform at international and national levels.

 ‘It is our aim to provide such a platform and to create opportunities for young artistes not only from the Northeast states but also from different parts of the country to go on and achieve their dreams and aspirations,’ Metha said.

Welcoming all to the Hornbill Festival of Nagaland, he asked the delegates coming from within and outside of the country to have a memorable Nagaland experience and urged them to be ambassadors of their state.

The advisor acknowledged the tedious journey made by the visitors owing to the road condition to their land, however, assured them that their “firm handshakes” to the guests are from the bottom of their hearts.

The event was also attended by Governor of Nagaland Prof. Jagdish Mukhi and Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio.