MUMBAI: The Naga Students’ Union Mumbai (NSUM) celebrated its 55th Nagas Meet-cum-Freshers’ Day on October 10 at the Alkesh Dinesh Mody Auditorium, University of Mumbai, bringing together students, working professionals, elders and families under the theme “Continuum”.
The annual gathering focused on preserving Naga identity and cultural heritage while encouraging younger generations to carry forward the community’s legacy in a changing world.
In her presidential welcome address, NSUM president Meyisenla Lemtur paid tribute to the pioneers who laid the foundation of the Naga community in Mumbai. She encouraged freshers to actively contribute to the community, describing the union as a bridge connecting students with professionals, youth with elders, and Nagas living in Mumbai with their homeland.
Delivering the keynote address, Dr. Raile Rocky Ziipao, associate professor at the Indian Institute of Technology Bombay (IIT Bombay), spoke on the theme “Continuum”, emphasising the importance of retaining Naga identity amid modernisation.
He urged the gathering to preserve the legacy inherited from their ancestors, along with their land, community and shared memories, while engaging with contemporary society.
The chief guest, Eno. Aku Zeliang, a designer and cultural entrepreneur associated with Heriloom Naga Center, Cane Concept and Urra Design, shared insights from his professional journey. He encouraged young Nagas to pursue their ambitions, noting the growing presence of the younger generation across diverse professional fields.
The programme opened with a choral performance by the Tangkhul Baptist Church Mumbai choir, followed by an invocation by Pastor Eno. Hamyan Phom of NCFM. The formal session also featured a special song by the NCFM Selah Worship Team, presentation of Naga folktales and a prayer for freshers led by Rev. Dr. Ashang Luiram, pastor of TBCM.
A freshers’ address was delivered by Eno. Chumlamo J. Murry, while the Voice of Nagaland team presented a special folk song. The formal proceedings concluded with a benediction by Rev. James Lana, followed by the Nagas Meet feast.
The informal session featured performances by Aghato Chishi and Suli Assumi, Chuimirin Khokyar, Lawrence Ngangzoyo and headline artist Shau Evans. Eno. Winnerson Khulusiimo hosted the session, while NSUM general secretary Ngalasing A. Shatsang delivered the vote of thanks. The event concluded with a closing prayer by Pastor Eno. Th Maiko of LRFCM.
The 55th edition of the annual gathering brought the Naga community in Mumbai together to welcome new students and reaffirm its commitment to cultural continuity, community ties and intergenerational connections.