Project Empathy launches ‘Weaves of Empathy’ docu-film in Kohima

KOHIMA — Project Empathy formally launched “Weaves of Empathy”, a docu-film rooted in the ‘Naga Oral History: Stories of Empathy’ project, on Saturday at Hotel Vivor, Kohima.

The film was conceived and led by the founder of Project Empathy, Vibha Lakhera, and directed by filmmaker Parasher Baruah.

The film brings to life intimate, intergenerational stories of care, resilience, community strength, and emotional wisdom shared across Naga families.

Attending the occasion, Abu Metha, advisor to the chief minister and chairman of the Investment Development Authority of Nagaland, recalled how he grew up listening to stories by the fireside from parents and grandparents.

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“Naga story is unique. It's special. It’s different,” he said.

He noted that the technological tools that connect people today are also the very tools that divide them. But empathy is the thread and the treasure that connects and brings the Nagas together.

He said one of the biggest strengths of Naga society is the close-knit sense of community where people work, celebrate, and grow together. Along with the positives, the people have also inherited negatives, one of which is tribalism, and the present generation grapples with it every day.

He called upon the people to introspect and overcome tribalism.

"In today's world, in the society that we live in, so often we see but we don't observe. We hear, but we don't listen. It is these words that teach us, that remind us, that we need to pause. We need to put ourselves in the other person's shoes," Metha remarked.

Vibha Lakhera said the project is a general reminder that stories, when shared with honesty and courage, have the power to transform.

She remarked that “Weaves of Empathy” is a beautifully woven fabric of memories, lived experiences, and emotional truths. She noted each thread carries a story, each story carries a lesson, and each lesson reminds that empathy is not taught in a single day; it is practised every day.

She further hoped viewers would recognise the strength in vulnerability, grace in listening, and responsibility everyone shares in building a kinder world. She called upon all to continue weaving empathy in classrooms and at homes.

AVSM, SM, Director General, Assam Rifles, Lt. Gen. Vikas Lakhera, recounted how as a young 22-year-old captain in the army during tough times in 1993, he was posted to Nagaland. He recalled it was a tough era for a young army officer to come this far.

Despite being fearful of getting hit by a bullet and anxious about how he would be treated, he said he has never witnessed hate in Nagaland.

He remarked that when one is an insider of a particular place, they may be biased and may not be objective. They will require somebody from outside who can narrate a story to them which they may like to hear, he said, while appreciating Team Project Empathy for the documentary.

He further stated that if Nagas really understood how blessed they are, then they would carry forward the legacy of their ancestors.

Earlier, MLA Dr. Tseilhoutuo Rhutso noted that empathy is something that is unique to the community and appreciated the effort of Project Empathy to tell the “extraordinary stories” of the Nagas.

He hoped that the film would promote tourism and that people from outside the state would come and experience the empathy of the community. He called upon the people to always remember the unique quality of the Nagas, keep it alive, and uphold it.

Appreciating the film, Abeni TCK said it reminds of the beauty and depth of Naga oral culture, where every story is a thread and every thread carries life and wisdom.

She said the power of the Naga oral culture lies in its ability to carry emotions, identity, history, and valuable information. “We have done so for centuries through stories, songs, folktales, and ancestral narratives,” she said, adding that the stories are not just past memories but also a way of thinking, teaching, reconciling, and keeping the people together.

The event also featured Shawl of Unity, created by Abeni TCK, the Ülikhrie Folk Group, Chedema, and paintings by artist Temjensunep.

A special curated programme by Anungla Zoe also brought together storytelling, reflection, and cultural resonance. It featured works and talks by designer Imchatsung Imchen, folk artist Veswuzo Phesao, author Vishü Rita Krocha, and others.

Students from Kohima’s Don Bosco College, Modern College, and Oriental College contributed to the film by gathering narratives from elders and families from the villages.