The serene village of Yimchalu, nestled in Mokokchung district, is all set to become the epicenter of artistic expression as it prepares to host the 3rd edition of the Nagaland Photography Festival. Scheduled from September 19 to 21. The festival is expected to draw approximately 300 photographers from across India, including participants from mainland India and domestic regions.
The Photography Club ’imapur, in collaboration with Yimchalu village, is organizing this event, which aims to promote tourism while showcasing Mokokchung’s rich history, culture, and natural beauty. Meyisanger Lemtur, the festival convener, highlighted that this year’s event will not only focus on photography but also on a variety of activities designed to enrich the festival experience.
International camera giants like Canon, Nikon, and Lumix are set to offer workshops throughout the festival, providing a golden opportunity for enthusiasts to learn from renowned international photographers. The festival also promises a diverse array of entertainment, with over 30 artists scheduled to perform during the three nights.
In addition to the artistic performances, attendees can expect a vibrant mix of activities, including cosplay, cultural displays, photography exhibitions, contests, and workshops. Other attractions include a kids’ corner, an airsoft stall, an automotive display, and the introduction of new sports like futsal and darts, organized by the Nagaland Darts Association.
Meyisanger Lemtur Convenor of the organizing committee, provided some insights of the festival. He emphasized the festival’s mission to blend art, culture, and community in a sustainable and inclusive environment.
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Lemtur stated that the photographers interested in participating in the upcoming Nagaland Photography Festival can register without any fee. The event is open to both amateurs and professionals, with the goal of fostering community engagement and artistic expression.
For those attending the festival from outside the region, Lemtur mentioned that accommodation options include homestays and camping tents, ensuring a comfortable stay close to the event’s activities. Additionally, transportation within Yimchalu and from the main town to the venue is conveniently provided, with both two-wheeler and four-wheeler taxis available for hire.
Lemtur emphasized that the festival promises an exciting lineup of events and workshops. Over the course of three days, participants can enjoy a variety of activities including a futsal competition, an angling competition, a kids’ carnival, a softball zone, cosplay events, and a musical concert. He added that workshops and seminars on photography will be held, led by resource persons from leading brands such as Sony, Nikon, Lumix, and Canon, who are currently being arranged.
According to Lemtur, the local community of Yimchalu village plays a crucial role in the festival, providing logistical support to ensure smooth operations. He highlighted a significant cultural event scheduled for September 20th, featuring traditional performances by the Konyak Union Mokokchung and other troupes from the villages of the Asetkong range, aimed at offering the attendees an authentic experience of local traditions.
While the names of the event sponsors are yet to be disclosed, Lemtur noted that the festival offers ample opportunities for local businesses to participate, with 40 stalls designated for local vendors to showcase and sell their products.
Details of the photography contest are still being finalized. However, Lemtur stressed the event’s commitment to environmental sustainability. The festival will be a plastic-free event, promoting the use of eco-friendly and locally available sustainable products. He encouraged attendees to bring their own refillable water bottles to minimize plastic waste, noting that free drinking water stations will be available throughout the venue for refilling.
Lemtur confirmed that the festival is open to the general public, with specific events such as the futsal and angling competitions being freely accessible to local residents of Mokokchung.
Looking ahead, Lemtur hinted that the long-term goals and future expansions of the Nagaland Photography Festival remain with the photography club, with the local committee committed to carrying the festival forward in the coming years.
