The first-ever Cultural Day was celebrated at the Cultural Hall in Shamator on June 6, marking a significant step toward preserving and promoting the rich cultural heritage of the Yimkhiung community. The event was jointly organised by the Shamator Town Public Forum (STPF), Shamator Town Students Union (STSU), and Yimkhiung Lebaru Shamator Arikho (YLSA).
Delivering the keynote address, STPF President Kiumehean highlighted that the inaugural edition of Cultural Day aimed to revive and showcase the unique traditions of the community. He announced that going forward, the first Friday of every month would be observed as Cultural Day, encouraging everyone to wear traditional attire, including in schools and offices, as a symbolic gesture of cultural pride.
Deputy Commissioner of Shamator, Chuba Temjen, in his speech, underlined the importance of culture and tradition, noting that they instill a sense of belonging and identity. He said cultural practices are not only expressions of communal values but also serve as vital links between the past and present.
“Culture is a powerful force that shapes our beliefs, values, and interactions with the world,” he said, adding that economic growth and social harmony are difficult to achieve without a shared cultural consciousness. He urged the younger generation to actively engage in preserving and promoting their cultural roots.
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Yanba Showuba, Advisor to the Yimkhiung Tribal Council (YTC), echoed similar sentiments, stating, “Without culture, there is no value in our community.”
He described the Naga society as one rich in vibrant customs and traditions, which are also admired internationally, particularly through their traditional attire. He appealed to all community leaders and dignitaries to uphold and implement cultural practices, ensuring that Shamator shines with its colourful heritage.
Speaking on the importance of preservation, Kiukhang, Head GB of Shamator, recalled the traditional beliefs held by forefathers. He noted that while the arrival of Christianity brought about changes in religious practices, it also led to a gradual decline in cultural observances. He stressed the need to reconnect younger generations with their heritage to safeguard cultural identity.
Earlier in the programme, short speeches were delivered by representatives from the Yimkhiung Women Organisation (YWO), Yimkhiung Akherü Arih-Ako (YAA), Yimkhiung Youth Organisation (YYO), and Shamator Town Students’ Union (STSU).
The event was attended by tribal bodies, representatives from various community organisations, and heads of local schools.
