The Office of the Deputy Commissioner Kohima, led by Deputy Commissioner B Henok Buchem, joined the live streaming of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s address from Dediyapada, Gujarat, and simultaneously observed the Janjatiya Gaurav Varsh celebrations at the DC’s Office, Kohima, on November 15.
Speaking on the occasion, DC Henok Buchem highlighted the significance of Janjatiya Gaurav Varsh, describing it as a day dedicated to honouring tribal pride and celebrating the legacy of Bhagwan Birsa Munda. Emphasizing the need for cultural preservation, he noted that modern lifestyle influences often dilute traditional values.
“Sometimes we are unaware of how our lifestyle has mixed with Western culture, and even our children become confused,” the DC said. He urged parents to prioritize teaching their children their own dialects at home, especially in families with mixed linguistic backgrounds. He cautioned that many young people today struggle to participate in church or community programmes because they are unfamiliar with their mother tongues.
Buchem further stressed the importance of respecting elders. Citing the Phom community as an example, he mentioned their culturally rich ways of addressing elder brothers, sisters, uncles, and aunts. He added that juniors must respect seniors irrespective of abilities, while seniors should offer love and guidance to their juniors.
Encouraging closer ties with roots, Buchem advised families to take their children to their villages for meaningful visits to build cultural affinity.
Download Nagaland Tribune app on Google Play
Chairing the programme, SDO (C) Rorheu Peseyie welcomed all attendees and highlighted the importance of the day’s commemoration. He noted that Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas officially recognizes and honours the contribution of tribal communities to India’s freedom struggle, nation-building, and cultural richness. This year’s event also marks the 150th birth anniversary of Bhagwan Birsa Munda.
Sharing a brief history, Peseyie stated that Birsa Munda, born on 15 November 1875 in the Chota Nagpur region, was a prominent freedom fighter and religious reformer. Revered as “Dharti Abba” (Father of the Earth), he devoted his life to resisting British colonial exploitation, oppressive land policies, and forced labour practices.
“His birth anniversary, November 15, is celebrated across India as Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas,” the SDO (C) said, reaffirming the relevance of Birsa Munda’s contributions to contemporary society.
Earlier, DC Buchem laid a flower garland on the portrait of Bhagwan Birsa Munda and paid his respects to the tribal leader.
