55th Nagas Meet cum Freshers’ Day celebrated in Mumbai

Mumbai, October 12 (MExN): The Naga Students’ Union Mumbai (NSUM) hosted its 55th Nagas Meet Cum Freshers’ Day on October 10 at the Alkesh Dinesh Mody Auditorium, Mumbai University, on the theme “Continuum”.Delivering the keynote address, Dr Raile Rocky Ziipao, Associate Professor at Indian Institute of Technology, Bombay (IIT), noted that regardless of what we embrace in contemporary times, our fundamental identity as Nagas remains unchanged. He challenged attendees to carry forward the rich legacy handed down by ancestors while preserving the land, community and shared memories. Chief guest Aku Zeliang, a designer and cultural entrepreneur associated with Heriloom Naga Center, Cane Concept and Urra Design, shared inspiring glimpses of his own professional journey. He observed how modern Nagas are successfully dominating diverse sectors, serving as a testament to the sharp intelligence of the younger generations, and encouraged everyone to persist in pursuing their ambitions.Earlier, the formal proceedings commenced with a choral performance by Tangkhul Baptist Church Mumbai (TBCM) choir and an invocation by Pastor Hamyan Phom (NCFM).In her presidential welcome address, NSUM President Meyisenla Lemtur commemorated the 55th Nagas Meet Cum Freshers’ Day by honouring the pioneers who built the community’s foundation. She urged incoming freshers to actively serve the community, emphasising that the union acts as a vital bridge connecting students with professionals, youth with elders and Mumbai with home. The formal programme also featured a special song by NCFM Selah Worship Team, felicitations and acknowledgments led by Information and Publicity Secretary Mezaakum Longchar, presentation of Naga folktales, dedicated prayer for freshers by Rev Dr Ashang Luiram, Pastor, TBCM, and freshers’ speech by Chumlamo J Murry. A special folk song was presented by the “Voice of Nagaland” team, followed by benediction by Rev James Lana and the Nagas Meet feast.The informal session, emceed by Winnerson Khulusiimo, showcased performances by Aghato Chishi and Suli Assumi, Chuimirin Khokyar, Lawrence Ngangzoyo and headline artist Shau Evans. It concluded with vote of thanks by NSUM General Secretary Ngalasing A Shatsang and closing prayer by Pastor Th Maiko (LRFCM).