SENAPATI: The Mao Naga Women Welfare Association organised a vibrant cultural programme on Saturday at the Asufii Football Academy Ground, bringing together women from across Mao Village to celebrate and promote the rich socio-cultural traditions of the Mao tribe.
Held under the theme “Opfope Ozhido Vano Asa Azhu Kocho,” the programme witnessed the participation of 32 women units representing different localities of the village. The event highlighted indigenous art forms, traditional skills and folklore that have been passed down through generations in the Mao community.
The cultural showcase featured four traditional competitions that reflected different aspects of Mao life and heritage. One of the key segments was “Lota Dado Sokava Kocho,” where participants demonstrated the traditional practice of ploughing the land, sowing seeds and weeding crops, a portrayal of the agricultural traditions that once shaped everyday life in the village.
Another highlight of the programme was “Dekava Kocho,” in which women displayed agility and confidence through a traditional jumping performance, drawing enthusiastic applause from the audience.
Music and folklore were also central to the celebration. During “Lokabvii Ka Kava Kocho,” participants played the traditional guitar while singing folklore songs that carried stories of the past. Meanwhile, “Khetsii Khe Kava Kocho” showcased the traditional mouth-string instrument, where performers created rhythmic sounds by pulling a string placed in the mouth, demonstrating a unique musical tradition of the community.
The programme drew a large number of villagers and community leaders who gathered to witness the performances and encourage the participants.
Addressing the gathering, Guest of Honour, Koshoni Phimu spoke about the importance of learning and preserving culture through the guidance of elders. She recalled how her grandparents used to teach her folklore songs and stories during her childhood.
In a heartfelt moment, she sang a traditional song taught to her by her grandparents, highlighting how cultural knowledge is often passed down through oral traditions. She said the Mao community possesses a unique culture that deserves to be preserved and appreciated.
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Phimu also encouraged continued support for women, noting that when a Mao woman sets her heart on something, she can achieve success and bring pride to her village with the encouragement of family and community.
Chief Guest Losii Dikho appreciated the organisers for putting together a well-prepared programme that reflects the richness of Mao culture. He noted that such gatherings help strengthen people’s understanding of their traditions and folklore.
While many traditional songs often recount stories of war and bravery, he suggested that the community could also compose songs celebrating joy, gratitude and praise to God. He further urged parents to continue encouraging their children to pursue education while remaining connected to their cultural identity.
Among those present at the programme were representatives from the Mao Council, Mao Students’ Union, former ADC Ashikho Kapani, the Mao Officers’ Union, Ememei Empowerment Initiatives, and the Mao National Worker Forum.
As the programme came to a close, participants and spectators stood together to sing the anthem, their voices rising across the ground.