at Naga Nite 2009

The weekend was unusually busy one; apart form the regular late blooming and deep cleansing of the week’s dirt and of course movies!!! …. Saturday on Invitation of my friend Amento, we were at the “Naga’s Nite 2009”. An event organized by the Naga Students Union of Bangalore and sponsored by the Music Task Force, a socio cultural wing under the Government of Nagaland. It was an extravaganza showcasing the vivid Naga folk culture and shades of both native Naga and the evolving Naga western music.

Evidently the Late Latif –me, again made a late landing making Amento wait at the gate; I am so sorry for that! Meanwhile though not a very large one yet quite a handsome crowd had gathered but the proceedings were delayed by some time (may be waiting for my arrival) and only stated around when we took our seats at the front rows just behind the “Caged Lots” (privileged class).

President of the Naga Student Union of Bangalore Mr. Aran Chihui in his introductory speech promised to present the many layers, the hues and spirit of Nagas through this event. The program rally began with the display of traditional Naga ways of life; from making fire between split bamboos, Naga women grinding grains, and athletic male’s high kicking. Many a traditional dance and songs were performed by the young Naga boys and girls, the Folk song presented by the Poumai Nagas was quite notable. I should also let you know the Naga’s are not just one single tribe but a combination of more then a dozen smaller tribes; Poumai, Aoo, Angami, Sumi, Mao and Lotha are a few of the names I remember, join together to form the greater Naga Community. And this was on display at the ramps with boys and girls dressed in their traditional colorful and distinguished tribal attire. Meanwhile my host Amento was continuously entertaining us with the interpretation where ever necessary and answering out queries.

But the biggest attraction of the night was the performing musicians, among them was present the famous (Guru) Rewben Mashangva, he thrilled the crowd with his peace flute and his Naga Blue numbers meant no comparison. The night was also enlightened by the high scaled rock band from Nagaland, the Divine Connection. They were the runner up of the prestigious Hornbill Rock Contest. Meanwhile the other performers were also equally good, especially Naro was exceptional.

More-or-less from my own point of view the entire happening was absolutely fantastic as Amento promised me it would be.