The Task Force for Music & Arts (TaFMA), Government of Nagaland, in collaboration with the U.S. Consulate General, Kolkata, officially launched “The Road to Liberty: The Leaders and Moments That Forged the United States,” an exhibition by the White House Founders Museum, at RCEMPA, Jotsoma, Kohima, on July 21.
Advisor to the Chief Minister and Chairman of the Investment and Development Authority of Nagaland (IDAN), Abu Metha underscored the deep historical and cultural ties between Nagaland and the United States while addressing the launch of “The Road to Liberty: The Leaders and Moments That Forged the United States,” an exhibition by the White House Founders Museum.
Extending congratulations to the American people on the 250th anniversary of US Independence, Metha said Nagaland is honoured to partner in commemorating the landmark occasion.
“We are grateful to the American Center for bringing this exhibition to Nagaland and to the White House Founders Museum for bringing the story of America’s independence to this far corner of the world,” he said.
He also congratulated the Task Force for Music and Arts (TaFMA), led by Chairman Theja Meru, for facilitating the collaboration, saying the exhibition provides an opportunity for the people of Nagaland, especially students and youth, to understand the journey of freedom, democracy and the foundations of one of the world’s leading democracies.
Highlighting the unique relationship between Nagaland and the United States, Metha said the two share a “special and strategic” partnership rooted in history, culture and shared values.
“Much of what Nagaland is today is thanks to the American people. Our cultural connections, the advent of Christianity, education and development have all strengthened the bond between Nagaland and America,” he said.
Describing the United States as a global symbol of democracy, freedom and free speech, Metha said Nagaland continues to value its longstanding partnership with America and expressed hope that the exhibition would further strengthen people-to-people ties and future collaborations.
Calling Nagaland “a small state with a proud history,” he said the state has consistently “punched above its weight” despite its size, crediting past generations for building enduring international friendships that have supported the people through challenging times.
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Addressing the youth, Metha encouraged them to continue building global networks and contribute meaningfully to democracy and humanity through collaboration with international partners.
He also emphasised the role of artists, writers and musicians in shaping Nagaland’s identity, stating that creative expression has become a powerful medium to tell the state’s story to the world.
“Today, Nagaland is getting known for the good things. Our musicians are performing across continents, our sportspersons are winning medals, and our young people have become ambassadors of a new Nagaland—far removed from the narratives of violence and instability,” he said.
Concluding his address, Metha reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening ties between Nagaland and the United States, saying he would continue working towards bringing the two peoples closer through cultural, educational and people-centric partnerships.
Chairman of the Task Force for Music and Arts (TaFMA), Theja Meru, expressed gratitude to the American Center, Kolkata, for bringing the exhibition to Nagaland.
“We are very grateful to the American Center for bringing this museum to the state of Nagaland,” he said, recalling his own visit to the United States through an American Center exchange programme many years ago.
Meru said the exhibition offers visitors an opportunity to understand the history, leaders and movements that forged the United States, adding that there is much to learn from America’s journey.
“In a nutshell, it brings together history through photographs and paintings that capture the leaders and movements that forged the United States of America,” he said.
Referring to the United States’ ongoing 250th Independence anniversary celebrations, Meru said the exhibition was especially significant as it allows young people to witness the historical developments that contributed to America’s growth into a global power.
He encouraged students, parents, teachers, principals, business leaders and research scholars to take advantage of the exhibition, describing it as a “once-in-a-lifetime” opportunity.
The exhibition is open to the public every day until Saturday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at RCEMPA, Jotsoma.
“I encourage parents to bring their children to read and learn about American history. I also encourage principals, businessmen, research scholars, and everyone to visit RCEMPA with their friends and families to experience this exhibition,” Meru said.
The launch programme featured a prelude by Zavino Nakhro, followed by a special musical performance by Lucy Arila.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Adu Keditsu, Manager, TaFMA.
