NEW DELHI, October 24, 2026: The Lotha Students’ Union Delhi (LSUD) celebrated its Fresher’s Day under the theme “Rooted in Values, Shaping Tomorrow: The Responsibility of Youth,” bringing together students, community leaders, distinguished speakers and cultural performers from various Naga communities.
The celebration combined intellectual reflection, cultural expression and fellowship, highlighting the importance of values, identity and responsible leadership in shaping the future of Naga society.
The programme began with a welcome address by LSUD president Rendemo Tsanglao, followed by a prayer of blessing for the freshers by Pastor Mhabemo Kithan of Delhi Lotha Baptist Church (DLBC).
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Former MLA, author and National People’s Party (NPP) national general secretary Mmhonlumo Kikon attended as the chief guest. The guests of honour were Prof. Benrithung Murry, Orenthung Kikon, NCS, Abraham Thiumai and Amos Kithan.
History, Identity and Responsibility of Youth
Addressing the gathering, Kikon urged Lotha students to draw strength from their history, take pride in their identity and contribute meaningfully to the collective future of the Naga people.
Reflecting on the significance of Kyuchu-Yikrachu, he stressed that Lotha history should not be understood merely through the milestones of 1947 or the formation of Nagaland in 1963, but must also acknowledge the courage, wisdom and perseverance of earlier generations.
While recognising historical injustices and unequal opportunities, he urged students to learn from the past without allowing it to define their future. Citing pioneers such as Khodao Yanthan, Kikon called on young people to develop intellectual strength, sound judgement and ethical leadership.
He also emphasised that differences should be resolved through reasoned dialogue and mutual respect rather than being allowed to escalate into clan or village rivalries.
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Drawing on Niketu Iralu’s warning against tribal chauvinism, Kikon said genuine pride in one’s community must not come at the expense of fairness, dignity and respect for others. He urged the younger generation to challenge inherited prejudices and discriminatory colonial terminology, stressing that the Naga peace process requires a collective commitment to justice, unity and lasting peace beyond narrow tribal interests.
Values as the Foundation of Character
Guest of honour Prof. Benrithung Murry highlighted the importance of values in shaping individual character and society. Describing values as an invisible compass guiding everyday decisions, he observed that social values are influenced by traditions, education and media, while personal values are strengthened through conscious choices.
He called on young people to embrace integrity, compassion and mutual respect as essential principles of leadership and social transformation. Emphasising the courage required to stand by one’s convictions amid changing social trends, he urged students to respond to the suffering of others, stand against injustice and revive the mutual respect deeply rooted in Naga heritage.
Murry underscored that values shape character, which in turn determines the kind of society future generations will inherit. He challenged students to cultivate the right values, remain firm in their convictions and become agents of positive change.
Faith, Purpose and Personal Growth
In his exhortation, Prof. Zuchamo Yanthan highlighted the relationship between faith, self-awareness, character and success. He explained that a personal relationship with God helps individuals recognise their strengths, acknowledge their weaknesses and discover their purpose in life.
Pursuing that purpose, he said, builds character and fosters discipline and consistency—qualities essential for professional success and a meaningful life dedicated to serving others.
Guest of honour Orenthung Kikon encouraged students to keep God at the centre of their lives and allow their faith to guide their words, actions and relationships. He urged them to pursue higher education for the value of learning rather than qualifications alone and encouraged working professionals to view their vocations as opportunities to serve others.
He also called on students to make the most of the opportunities available in Delhi-NCR by building meaningful relationships, acquiring new skills and preparing to contribute to Nagaland’s sustainable development.
Emphasising cultural identity, Kikon urged young people to represent their heritage with dignity, kindness and integrity. He reminded the gathering that thoughts shape who people are, habits build who they become, and choices ultimately define the people they turn out to be.
Naga Talent, Culture and Unity on Display
The celebration featured musical and cultural performances by Sojano Tsopoe of Wokha, Bem Khuvung, Keria Khuvung, Echungbeni Shitiri, Nadia Yanthan, Yipen Kikon, the Lotha Music Band, the Eternals dance crew and other performers. A special performance by Abdon Mech captivated the audience and added to the evening’s entertainment.
The programme was compered by Mharoni Ezung and Wobeni Kithan. A major highlight was the Naga fashion show competition, in which participants representing different Naga tribes showcased their colourful traditional attire through creative presentations. Lichanbeni Tungoe Kithan and Dr. Mercy K. Khaute served as judges.
The event also featured a raffle draw, adding to the excitement of the celebration.
Beyond welcoming new students, the gathering provided a platform for cultural exchange, inter-tribal fellowship and renewed appreciation of a shared Naga identity. The participation of representatives from various Naga tribal student units reinforced the importance of solidarity, mutual respect and collective progress.
The celebration conveyed a message that the future of the Naga people will be shaped not merely by academic qualifications or individual achievements, but also by the values young people uphold, the character they cultivate, the divisions they overcome and the legacy they leave behind.
