Highlights of the Activities 2006 - 2007

The regular activities of the Centre are broadly divided as follows:

I           NATIONAL CULTURAL EXCHANGE PROGRAMME (NCEP)

National Cultural Exchange Programme (NCEP) are organized with the financial assistance from Government of India. Under this Scheme the NEZCC organizes Festivals of Dances & Music, Poets/Writers Meet, Workshop on Painting/Woodcrafts/Cane & Bamboo, Exhibition, Fair, Seminar etc. All the Zonal Cultural Centre have signed MoU with each other and send cultural troupes/artistes on exchange manner to participate in the various programmes organized by each Zonal Cultural Centre (ZCC).

II         RESEARCH & DOCUMENTATION

Under this scheme, documentation of vanished, vanishing and contemporary arts and crafts of northeast region are undertaken by way of grassroots level research and collection of data, video filming, still photography, publication of books, etc. and preserved systematically and circulated for the promotion of Cultural Heritage.

III        THEATRE REJUVENATION

Theatre Rejuvenation Scheme provides opportunity to theatre workers, students, actors, artistes, directors and writers etc to perform and interact on a common platform. Under this scheme Natyostsav (Theatre Festival), Traditional theatre festival, experimental theatre festival and intensive theatre workshops are organized to promote theatre among the masses as an effort to understand the various kinds of theatre forms and their production.

IV        GURU SHISHYA PARAMPARA

Guru Shishya Parampara Scheme has been introduced during the year 2003 – 2004 with a view to promote new talents in the field of music and dance, folk and tribal art forms under the guidance of the Gurus. Under this Scheme Guru Shishsya Kendras are opened for a period of one/two years consisting of one Guru supported by an assistant for imparting training to four/five students. The Guru, assistant and Shishyas are provided financial assistance Stipend of Rs.2000/-, Rs.900/- and Rs.500/- per month respectively. 

V         YOUNG TALENTED ARTISTES

            This Scheme has been introduced during the year 2004 – 2005 to recognize and encourage young talents in various art forms in the region. Under this scheme selected Young Talented Artistes are recognized with a cash award of Rs.10,000/- each.

VI        SHILPGRAM ACTIVITIES

            The ZCCs are engaged in major activities through the Shilpgrams set up for promotion of arts and crafts and for providing marketing facilities to the craftsperson of the region. The NEZCC Shilpgram set up at Panjabari, Guwahati, provides 45 (forty five) permanent Stalls to the craftsperson of the region for Exhibition-cum-Sale of crafts items and 8 (eight) pavilion to the member States to exhibit the art & crafts of the respective State. The Centre organizes craft mela, dance festivals and cultural programmes from time to time at the Shilpgram Complex.

VII      MUSEUM

Collection and preservation of Crafts/ Artifacts of the region and display of the specimens in the North East Heritage museum of NEZCC.

VIII     LIBRARY

 Collection of books and publications related to the Art & Crafts and other related topics for a public library.

REVIEW OF ACHIEVEMENTS 2006 – 2007

A.        NATIONAL CULTURAL EXCHANGE PROGRAMME (NCEP)

1.         Celebration of Jagatsinghpur Zila Mahotsav, “Kollola”, 2006

A Three day Mahotsav was organized by Eastern   Zonal Cultural Centre, Kolkata from April 1 – 3, 2006 at Collectorate Ground, Jagatsinghpur, Orissa. NEZCC participated in the festival by sending a Bihu troupe consisting 15 member from Nagajari Sanskritik Kendra, Sarupathar, Assam.

2.         Traditional Cultural Show-Cum-Competition

A Five day Traditional Cultural Show-cum- Competition was organized by the All Zeliang Students Union, Assam, Manipur and Nagaland under the theme “History for Justice and Peace” during the 19^th General Conference-cum-Cultural Meet of AZSC from April 28 to May 1, 2006 at Binakandi, Cachar District, Assam. The NEZCC co-sponsored the Cultural Show.

3.         Moatsu Festival – Chuchuyimlang

The Moatsu Festival was organized by the Village Council of Chuchuyimlang at Chuchuyimlang Village on May 2, 2006. The NEZCC participated in the festival by sponsoring Chakhesang Zuve Cultural Club, Naga United Village, Dimapur consisting of 18 member and 5 members Angami Folk Song group from Rusoma Village, Kohima.

4.         Echoing Hills – Indigenous Music Festival

This programme was organized by Abiogenesis Society, Dimapur on May 3, 2006 at Imliyanger Memorial Centre, Dimapur. Guru Reuben Mashangva, Manipur, Inventor & Player of Tangteila (Musical Instruments) and Shri. Moa Subong, Inventor & Player of Bamhum (Musical Instruments) were the event organizers of the programme. The objective of the festival was to promote Tingteila, Bamhum and other indigenous musical instruments in an effort to encourage innovations and to generate awareness amongst the Naga youth.  The NEZCC co-sponsored the festival.

5.         Parvatiya Parv - Gharwal Region

The North Central Zone Cultural Centre, Allahabad organized Parvatiya Parv from May 9 – 15, 2006 in collaboration with Department of Culture, Government of Uttaranchal, Dehradun at Gharwal Region. The NEZCC participated in the festival by sending a Martial Art troupe consisting of 10 members from Huyen Lalong Manipur Thang-ta Cultural Association, Imphal, Manipur.

6.         1^st Nagaland Poetry Competition – 2006

The 1^st Nagaland Poetry Competition – 2006 was organized by the Poetry Society, India under the theme “The Power of words”, on May 15, 2006 at Rotary Club, Dimapur. The NEZCC co-sponsored the programme. His Excellency the Governor of Nagaland & Chairman, NEZCC Shri Shyamal Datta graced the occasion as the Chief Guest.

7.         Folk Fair – 2006

The Eastern Zonal Cultural Centre, Kolkata organized Folk Fair – 2006 on May 16 & 17, 2006 at Muktakash Rangamarcha near Gandicha Temple, Puri, Orissa. A Naga troupe the Pongching Buhu Cultural Society consisting of 15 members from Nagaland participated in the fair from the NEZCC.

8.         Gangotri Mahotsava – 2006

Gangotri Mahotsava – 2006 was organized by Eastern Zone Cultural Centre, Kolkata on May 21, 2006 at Bhubaneswar. The NEZCC participated in the festival by sending a Bihu troupe consisting of 15 members from Nagajari Sanskritik Kendra, Sarupathar, Assam.

9.         Parvatiya Parv –Kumaon Region

Parvatiya Parv – 2006 (Chain Programme - I)  was organized by the North Central Zone Cultural Centre, Allahabad in collaboration with Department of Culture, Government of Uttaranchal, Dehradun from May 20–26, 2006 at Kumaon Region. 10 (ten) members of Singhi Chham troupe from Sikkim participated in the festival from NEZCC.

10.       Indradhanush – 2006

The North Central Zone Cultural Centre, Allahabad organized Indradhanush – 2006 programme relating to Tribal, Folk & Traditional Artistes Camp (Painting) in collaboration with Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration, Mussoorie from May 21 – 28, 2006 at Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration. The NEZCC participated in the Camp by sending Shri. Jimmy Chishi an artist from Nagaland.

11.       Indigenous Peoples of North East Theatre Festival & National Conference on Folklore, Identity & Performance

This programme was organized by NEZCC, Dimapur in collaboration with Department of Art & Culture, Government of Manipur under National Cultural Exchange Programme (NCEP) from May 22 – 24, 2006 at Imphal, Manipur. The programme was inaugurated by Dr. C. Amuba, Vice Chancellor of Manipur University. Participants from Ragailong Cultural Song & Dramatic Union, Imphal, Hula Sindamsang, Imphal, Laihui, Imphal, Sampili Theatre Centre, Agartala, School of Art & Aesthetics, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, Kalakshetra, Manipur with artistes from Assam besides many eminent persons participated in the three-day programmes.

12.       Programme in Connection with INTACT Seminar

An entertainment evening programme displaying various art forms ranging from folk, traditional music and dance to the classical jazz tunes of piano was presented by local artistes from Kohima and Dimapur at the Durbar, Hall, Raj Bhavan, Kohima on May 23, 2006.

13.       Lok Nritya Samaraho

The Eastern Zonal Cultural Centre, Kolkata organized Lok Nritya Samaraho on May 23, 2006 at Bharatiyam Cultural Multiplex, Kolkata. A 15 member Bihu troupe from Nagajari Sanskritik Kendra, Sarupathar, Assam participated from the NEZCC.

14.       Shilpi – Sangathani

Shilpi – Sangathani, a socio – cultural organization, Tripura organized a Children Drama Competition from May 29, 2006 to June 03, 2006 at Rabindra Satabarshiki Bhawan, Agartala.  The NEZCC co-sponsored the programme.

15.       All Nagaland Beat Contest – 2006

The All Nagaland Beat Contest – 2006 was organized by Mind Blowers Club, Dimapur at Town Hall, Dimapur on June 10, 2006. The NEZCC co-sponsored the programme.

16.       Bharat Scouts & Guides Inter State Cultural Exchange Programme

A One day Cultural programme was organized            at NEZCC Office on June 7, 2006 in commemoration with Bharat Scouts & Guides Inter State Cultural Exchange Programme. Bharat Scouts & Guides from Punjab consisting of 33 members alongwith teachers and Bharat Scouts & Guides with teachers from different schools of Dimapur District presented folk dances and songs during the Exchange Programme.

17.       Sardar Villabhai Patel National Police Academy, Hyderabad

This programme was organized by Sardar Villabhai Patel National Police Academy, Hyderabad at Hyderabad on June 8 &9, 2006. The NEZCC Dimapur participated in the East Zone Cultural Nite by arranging a cultural troupe consisiting of 19 members from the Assam Cultural Academy. The troupe presented the famous Bihu dance and a few other dances related to Bihu such as Bihuti and Bihu Samragyi Nach.

18.       Crafts Mela 2006

A three day Crafts Mela 2006 was organized by North East Zone Cultural Centre, Dimapur at Shilpgram, Panjabari, Guwahati from July 3 to 5, 2006. It was inaugurated by Smt Angau I. Thou, Director, NEZCC. In addition to the Crafts Mela, colourful and vibrant traditional art forms were presented  by the member States viz; Lion &Peacock dance of Arunachal Pradesh, Bihu dance, Assam, Thangta/ Dhol Cholom -Manipur, Wangala dance – Meghalaya, Cheraw dance - Mizoram, Butterfly dance – Nagaland, Yak dance – Sikkim and Hozagiri dance - Tripura. The Songs & Drama Division, Guwahati, Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, Government of India also collaborated with the NEZCC by providing cultural troupes for the inaugural function.

19.       Cultural Extravaganza

A three – day Cultural Extravaganza was organized by the Meranglar Self Help Group (MSHG) on the occasion of Tsungremmong Festival of Ao Naga on August 3, 2006 at Imliyanger Memorial Centre, Dimapur. The festival was inaugurated by Shri Alemtemshi Jamir, Principal Secretary & Agricultural Production Commissioner, Government of Nagaland and Shri Mayang Lima, ADC (Judicial) Dimapur, Government of Nagaland. Besides the cultural show, there was an exhibition– cum– sale of handicrafts, handlooms and food items made by the Self Help Groups. The NEZCC co – sponsored the programme.

20.       Workshop on Making of Traditional Musical Instruments of Meghalaya

The Workshop on Making of Traditional Musical Instruments of Meghalaya was organized by NEZCC at Shillong from August 21 to 25, 2006 at Art & Culture, Hall, Shillong in collaboration with Department of Art & Culture, Government of Meghalaya. The Workshop was inaugurated by Shri C.C. Mishill, Director, Art & Culture, Meghalaya. Altogether 21 artistes and 4 experts participated in the workshop.

21.       Parampara Festival  

A three – day Parampara Festival 2006 was organized by West Zone Cultural Centre, Udaipur at Pune, Chinchwad, Maharashtra from August 28 to 30, 2006.  NEZCC participated in the festival by sending a Bihu troupe consisting of 16 members from Assam

22.       Multi Media Training Workshop

The South Central Zone Cultural Centre, Nagpur organized Multi Media Training Workshop at Nagpur from September 3 to 12, 2006. Two Craftsperson specialized in making Dry Flowers from Nagaland participated from the NEZCC.

23.       Drama Festival

A three – day National Drama Festival was organized by NEZCC in collaboration with Department of Art & Culture, Government of Meghalaya from September 12 to 14, 2006 at State Central Library Hall, Shillong under NCEP. The Drama Festival was inaugurated by Shri C.C. Mishill, Director, Art & Culture, Government of Meghalaya. Allahabad (NCZCC), staged “E.K. Bayan” - , Kolkata (EZCC) staged “Shasti” a drama based on Rabindranath Tagore’s, Manipur (NEZCC) presented “A Check Pagi Khojel”, Mizoram (NEZCC) staged “Saikuti”, Assam (NEZCC) staged “Dhunumoina” and Meghalaya (NEZCC) presented a drama composed and directed by Smt Silibi Passah.  Altohether, six Drama Groups consisting of 15 members from each State took part in the Festival.

24.       Cultural Programme At Mussoorie

A Cultural Programme was organized by Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration Mussoorie on September 15, 2006 at Musoorie. The NEZCC participated in the cultural programme by sending two cultural troupes consisting of 16 members each from the States of Mizoram and Nagaland.

25.       Rabindra Sammelan

The 10^th Rabindra Sammelan was organized by Rabi Anurag, an Organization for Research and Practice of Tagore’s Songs on September 16 & 17, 2006 at Rabindra Satabarshiki Bhawan, Agartala. Renowned singers Smt Shrabani Sen from Kolkata, Smt Mita Haq, Shri Bulbul Islam from Bangladesh and Shri Suba Prasad and Shri Nandi Majumdar, an eminent singer from Assam participated in the festival. In addition artisans from the Northeast displayed their traditional handicrafts and folk arts in the Mela.

26.       29^th Conference of the Indian Folklore Congress and National Seminar on Oral Discourse and Ancient Knowledge of North East India

The 29^th Conference of the Indian Folklore Congress & National Seminar on Oral Discourse and Ancient Knowledge of North East India was organized by North – Eastern Hill University (NEHU) Shillong in collaboration with North Eastern Council, Government of India, North East Zone Cultural Centre, Dimapur, Central Institute of Indian Languages, Mysore, Central Institute of English and Foreign Languages, Hyderabad, Sahitya Akademi and Indian Council for Social Science Research, NERC, Shillong  from September 20 to 22, 2006 at North Eastern Hill University Campus, Shillong.

27.       Theatre Festival

The West Zone Cultural Centre organized a six – day Theatre Festival at Dadar, Mumbai from October 5 – 10, 2006. The NEZCC participated in the festival by sending a Theatre group consisting of 19 members from Manipur.

28.       Craft & Food Festival 2006

A fifteen – day Craft and Food Festival was organized by North East Zone Cultural Centre in collaboration with the Development Commissioner (Handicrafts) Ministry of Textile, Government of India at NEZCC Shilpgram, Panjabari, Guwahati from October 9 – 23, 2006. During the course of the 15 days festival cultural shows were organized every evening. About 150 craftsperson from the North East Region participated in this crafts bazar.

29.       Cultural Unity Camp

A two –day Cultural Unity Camp was organized by NEZCC in collaboration with Department of Art & Culture, Mizoram at the Multi-Purpose Cultural Complex, Beraw Tlang, Aizawl on October 11 & 12, 2006 under NCEP.  The programme was inaugurated by Shri Vanlalhum, IPS, Secretary, Art & Culture, Government of Mizoram. The first day programme was chaired by Smt. Boichhingpuii, Director, Art & Culture, Government of Mizoram. The Cultural programme consisting of the Bihu dance (Assam), Sherpa dance, Damang Selo and Maruni dance (Sikkim), Chawnglaizawn dance (Mizoram) and a demonstration of the martial folk dance of Bengal (EZCC, Kolkata) and a lecturer-cum-song on the Kuchamani Kyal by WZCC (Rajasthan) were presented during the function. Altogether 43 artistes participated from the States of Assam, Manipur, Sikkim and Mizoram, besides the EZCC and WZCC.

30.       Virasat – International Heritage of Folklife Festival

A three – day Virasat – International Heritage of Folklife Festival was organized by Rural Entrepreneurship of Art & Cultural Heritage (REACH) at Dehradun on October 12 & 13, 2006.  The NEZCC participated in the festival by sending a Naga dance troupe consisting of 18 members from Nagaland.

31.       Miniature Painting Camp

The North Zone Cultural Centre, Patiala organized a Miniature Painting Camp from October 14 – 23, 2006 at Kalagram, Manimajra, Chandigarh. The Centre participated in the Camp by sending an artist from Assam.

32.       Lokrang Festival

The Lokrang Festival organized by West Zone Cultural Centre, Udaipur from October 15 to 17, 2006 at Jawaharlal Nehru Marg, Jaipur. Three cultural troupes from Nagaland, Arunachal Pradesh and Assam were sent by the NEZCC to participate in the festival.

33.       Dussehra Mela

The Mela was organized by West Zone Cultural Centre, Udaipur at Kota Rajasthan on October 18 & 19, 2006. The NEZCC participated in the Mela by sending three cultural troupes from the States of Arunachal Pradesh, Assam and Nagaland.

34.       Indigenous Pottery Workshop

An Indigenous Pottery Workshop was organized by North East Zone Cultural Centre in collaboration with the Department of Art & Culture, Government of Manipur under NCEP at the Cultural Complex, Palace Compound, Imphal from October 18 – 21, 2006. There were altogether 17 (seventeen) local participants from Manipur. Two Thonjao potters, one Andro potters, one subject expert and one Workshop Director were the resource persons for the Workshop. The Workshop was inaugurated by Dr. N. Tombi Singh, Member Programme Committee, NEZCC on October 18, 2006 and the function was presided by Dr. Kh. Sarojini Devi, Director, Art & Culture, Government of Manipur.

35.       Namchi Mahotsav – 2006

The NEZCC organized the first ever Cultural Festival in Sikkim from October 19 & 20, 2006 at Namchi, the District Capital of South Sikkim in collaboration with the Department of Cultural Affairs & Heritage, Government of Sikkim. Shri G. M. Gurung, Hon’ble Minister for Cultural Affairs & Heritage and Shri D. D. Bhutia, Hon’ble Minister for Land Revenue, Urban Development and Housing graced the cultural functions as Chief Guest on the 1^st and 2^nd day respectively. Altogether 121 artistes from Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Mizoram, Meghalaya, Nagaland and Sikkim participated in the festival. Other attraction of the Mahotsav which offered a glimpse of the rich cultural heritage of Sikkim, were the Crafts Mela, Ethnic cuisines and the Songs and Dance Competitions.

36.       “Down The Ages” - An Ethnic Programme titled

“Down the Ages” was organized by the Ethnic Network, Dimapur to explore the cultural heritage and prospects of traditional wear of Northeast on October 20, 2006 at Dimapur District Sports Complex (DDSC), Nagaland. This programme was co-sponsored by the NEZCC.

37.       3^rd N. Eastern Cultural Festival & 10^th Annual Conference of Janakalyan

The programme was organized at Rabindra Bhavan, Guwahati, Assam by Janakalyan and North East Socio Cultural Organization (NESCO) from October 28 to 30, 2006. The NEZCC co-sponsored the programme by arranging 4 (four) cultural troupes consisting of 18 members each from Mizoram (Cheraw), Meghalaya (Wangla), Nagaland (Naga dance) and a tribal dance from Tripura.

38.       “Purvattari”

“PURVATTARI” a Workshop cum Exhibition on Arts and Crafts of North Eastern States was organized by Indra Gandhi Rashtriya Manab Sangrahalaya, (IGRMS), Bhopal in collaboration with the Srimanta Sankardeva Kalakshetra, Guwahati from October 28 to November 6, 2006 at SSK, Guwahati. The NEZCC co-sponsored the festival by sending a Sumi Cultural troupe from Nagaland to participate in the Cultural programme.

39.       12^th Srijani Utsav

The Eastern Zonal Cultural Centre, Kolkata organized 12^th Srijani UTSAV at Purulia, West Bengal on November 6 & 7, 2006. Two troupes from Mizoram and Nagaland consisting of 16 members each were sent from the NEZCC to participate in the UTSAV.

40.       Parampara (Folk Dance Festival of the North East)

A three - day Folk Dance Festival of the North East under the theme “PARAMPARA” was organized by the NEZCC at Shilpgram, Panjabari, Guwahati coinciding with the Annual meetings of Programme Committee, Finance Committee and Executive Board/Governing Body from November 9 – 11, 2006. The festival was inaugurated by Shri Shyamal Datta, His Excellency the Governor of Nagaland and Chairman, NEZCC. During the festival Guru Rewben Mashangva, Manipur, Guru Zachunu Keyho, Nagaland and Guru Mrs. N. (O) Ibemni Devi, Manipur were honoured. Altogether 150 artistes from the North Eastern States of Arunachal Pradesh Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim and Tripura consisting 16 member each took part in the three – day cultural extravaganza. Another added attraction was the permanent Craft Stalls put up by the member States of NEZCC with their rich diversity of colourful handloom and handicrafts products. Besides, ethnic cuisine and delicacies were also served in the various food stalls.

41.       Kalinga Balijatra Festival

This festival was organized by District Administration of Bundi on November 9 & 10, 2006 at Bundi, Rajasthan. The NEZCC participated in the festival by sending the Narisen Lotha troupe consisting of 16 members from Nagaland.

42.       Childrens’s Day Programme

All Nagaland Private Schools’ Association organized the Children’s Day Programme on November 14, 2006 at City Tower, Dimapur. The theme of the programme was “Children need Peace”. The Centre co-sponsored the programme by giving financial assistance to the organizers.

43.       13^th Birth Anniversary of the Great Patriot & Revolutionary Bir Birsa Munda

This programme was organized by Eastern Zonal Cultural Centre, Kolkata on November 17 & 18, 2006 at Hasimara, West Bengal. Fifteen members of Sumi Tsukoli Club, Diphupar, Nagaland was sent from the NEZCC to participate in the programme.

44.       “Winter Challenge – 2006”

The “Winter Challenge 2006” was organized by the Dimapur District Badminton Association Dimapur, Nagaland on November 22 & 23, 2006 at DDBA Complex, Nagarjan, Dimapur. The NEZCC co-sponsored the cultural programme.

45.       Akhil Bharat Rachanatmak Samaj Annual Conference

The Akhil Bharat Rachanatmak Samaj Annual Conference was held at Tirupathi, Andhra Pradesh from November 25 to 27, 2006. As requested by the organizers the NEZCC participated in the programme by sending two cultural troupes from Assam and Manipur.

46.       12^th Puri Beach Festival

The Eastern Zonal Cultural Centre, Kolkata organized this festival at Balipanda, Puri from November 25 – 27, 2006. A Fifteen members Bihu troupe from Sarupathar, Sanmilita Shilpi Gusti, Assam was sent from the NEZCC to participate.

47.       Orange City Craft Mela & Folk Dance Festival

The South Central Zone Cultural Centre, Nagpur organized this festival at Nagpur from November 24 to December 5, 2006. The NEZCC participated in the festival by sending a cultural troupe from Manipur and 2 crafts persons from Nagaland who participated in the Crafts Mela.

48.       Cultural Evening Cultural Programme for Foreign Delegates

This programme was organized by EZCC, Kolkata at Bharatiyam Cultural Multiplex Complex, Kolkata on November 26, 2006. A Fifteen member Bihu troupe of the Sanskritic Vikas, Guwahati, Assam was sent from the NEZCC to participate in the programme.

49.       Kurukshetra Utsav Geeta Jayanti Samaroh – 2006

The Utsav was organized by Department of Culture, Government of Haryana, Zonal Cultural Centres, District Administration of Kurukshetra Development Board at Kurukshetra, Haryana from November 22 to December 1, 2006. The NEZCC participated in the Utsav by sending four cultural troupes from Assam, Manipur, Nagaland and Sikkim.

50.       Rashtriya Shilpmela

A ten – day Rashtriya Shilpmela was organized by North Central Zone Cultural Centre (NCZCC) at Allahabad from December 1 – 10, 2006. The NEZCC participated in the Mela by sending a Bihu cultural troupe consisting of 15 members from Assam and 4 craftsperson from Assam, Manipur and Nagaland.

51.       Music Festival – 2006, Agartala

The “Music Festival 2006”, Agartala under NCEP was held at Rabindra Satabarshiki Bhavan, Agartala, Tripura from December 7 & 8, 2006. The festival was inaugurated by Shri Anil Sarkar, Hon’ble Minister of ICAT, Government of Tripura on December 7, 2006. The cultural programme started with the Kuchipudi Classical Dance presented by Smt Bobby Charkraborty followed by folk songs presented by artistes from different districts of Tripura, EZCC, Assam. On December 8, 2006, a Workshop was held on the topic of “Folk Song & Dances of North East” and “Folk Culture of Tripura”.  Altogether 4 (four) music troupe from four Districts of Tripura, EZCC Kolkata, Assam, besides, 3 experts were participated in the Workshop.

52.       Arunachal Pradesh Artiste Meets 2006

Arunachal Pradesh Artiste Meet 2006 was organized in collaboration with the Department of Art & Culture, Government of Arunachal Pradesh on December 8 & 9, 2006 at Sidhartha Hall, Itanagar. The occasion was graced by Shri Shyamal Datta, His Excellency the Governor of Nagaland and Chairman, NEZCC as the Chief Guest and Shri M. Tingkhatra, Hon’ble Minister for Environment & Forest, Government of Arunachal Pradesh as the Guest of Honour. The festival was inaugurated by the Chief Guest by lighting the Ceremonial Lamp. The programme was organized with the aim and objective of providing a common platform to the singers of the State and promote their talent.

53.       Gajapati Utsav

The Utsav was organized by Eastern Zonal Cultural Centre (EZCC), Kolkata at Paralakhomundi, Gajapati, Orissa from December 9 – 11, 2006. A Fifteen member Cheraw dance troupe from Mizoram was sent from the NEZCC to participate.

54.       Pre – Christmas Celebration Programme

This programme was organized by the Naga Women Society, Guwahati on December 9, 2006 at NEZCC Shilpgram Complex Guwahati. The NEZCC co-sponsored this programme.

55.       Harmony through Culture

The North East Zone Cultural Centre, Dimapur sponsored the ‘”Harmony through Culture” a musical celebration of indigenous peoples’ organized by the NPMHR from December 10 -12, 2006 at Imliyanger Memorial Centre, Dimapur. Altogether 15 cultural groups from the region (including Boroks, Mizo, Meitei, Tai Ahom, Kukis, Bodo, etc.) participated in the programme. More than 300 eminent artistes from different cultural groups from the region participated in the programme.

56.       Shilp ‘O’ Banijya Mela

The Mela was organized by Agragami Handicapped Samity, West Bengal at Nandigram, District Purba Medinipur, West Bengal on December 15, 2006. The Centre participated in the Mela by sending a Classical troupe from Manipur.

57.       Shilp Darshan

A three – day Shilp Darshan was organized by West Zone Cultural Centre (WZCC) at Udaipur from December 16 – 18, 2006. Sixteen members of the Hakhezhe Cultural Club, Nuiland, Nagaland was sent from the NEZCC to participate in the festival.

58.       Shilpgram Utsav

The Utsav was organized at Udaipur by West Zone Cultural Centre, Udaipur from December 22 to 31, 2006. The NEZCC participated in the Utsav by sending five cultural troupes from Assam, Meghalaya and Manipur, craftsperson from Nagaland, Assam and a Mime Theatre Repertory group from Manipur.

59.       National Conference

The National Conference was organized by Eastern Zonal Cultural Centre, Kolkata on December 23 & 24, 2006 at Bhimar Bazar, Tamul, East Midnapur. The NEZCC participated in the conference by sending a Bihu cultural troupe from Assam.

60.       Vishnupur Mela

The Vishnupur Mela was organized by EZCC, Kolkata at Bishnupur, District Bankara from December 25 – 27, 2006. A Fifteen member Bihu cultural troupe, Assam was sent from the NEZCC.

61.       Children’s Book Fair

A three – day Children’s Book Fair was organized by EZCC, Kolkata at Salt Lake, Kolkata from December 28 – 30, 2006. The NEZCC participated in the fair by sending a Bihu troupe from Assam.

62.       Lok Mahotsav – 2007

The EZCC, Kolkata organized the Lok Mahotsav from January 4 – 6, 2007 at Sambalpur. The NEZCC participated in the festival by sending a cultural troupe consisting of 15 members from Nagaland.

63.       Haldia Utsav

The Utsav was organized by EZCC, Kolkata from January 6 -7, 2007 at East Midnapur. The NEZCC participated in the Utsav by sending a Bihu troupe of Niagovindra, Sri Sri Kamdewal Satra consisting of 15 members from Assam.

64.       Island Tourism Festival

The Island Tourism Festival was jointly organized by the EZCC, Kolkata & SZCC, Thanjavur from January 6 – 21, 2007 at Andaman & Nicobar Islands. The NEZCC participated in the festival by sending two cultural troupes consisting of 15 members each from Arunachal Pradesh & Manipur

65.       Krishnasayer Utsav

The EZCC, Kolkata organized the Utsav at Krishnasayer Burdwan on January 9 & 10, 2007. Fifteen (15) members of the Bihu troupe from Niagovindra Sri Sri Kamdewal Satra, Assam participated from the NEZCC.

66.       Loknritya Samaraho

The Lokritya Samaraho was organized by EZCC, Kolkata at Bharatiya, Cultural Complex, Kolkata on January 11, 2007. The NEZCC participated in the Utsav by sending a Bihu troupe of Niagovindra Sri Sri Kamdewal Satra consisting 15 members from Assam.

67.       Shilp Utsav – 2007

The Shilp Utsav 2007, marking the 1^st Anniversary of the establishment of Shilpgram, Guwahati was organized from the 17^th to the 19^th January, 2007 at the Shilpgram Complex. His Excellency, the Governor of Assam Lt. Gen. (Retd.) Ajay Singh inaugurated the festival on the 17^th January, 2007. The festival witnessed a grand cultural show with notable performances from Shri Vijay Srivastav and team. World famous Ghazal singer, Peenaz Masani, flute recital by Dipak Sarma and Bipul Das and Bollywood singer Vinod Rathore who were invited to perform during the Utsav.

68.       Mimkut Celebration – 2007

This festival was organized by the Kuki INPI at Molvom, Nagaland on January 16 & 17, 2007. The NEZCC sponsored this festival. Altogether 30 artistes participated in this festival observed by the Kuki tribe.

69.       Karaikal Carnival Festival

The South Zone Cultural Centre, Thanjavur organized this festival at Karaikal, Pondicherry from January 12 – 18, 2007. The NEZCC participated in the festival by sending the following:

1.         Bagrumba dance, Assam                            –          16        members

2.         Yimchunger dance, Nagaland                  –          17   members

3.         Lion dance, Arunachal Pradesh                –          15     members

70.       Adra Utsav – 2007 & International Conference

The EZCC, Kolkata organized this Utsav on January 19, 2007 at Rangamanch, Bharatiyam Cultural Multiplex Salt Lake Kolkata. The NEZCC participated by sending a cultural troupe from Meghalaya consisting of 15 members.

71.       12^th Agriculture Industry Tourism & Science Festival

The programme was organized by Contai Palpara Sarasadevi Mahila Mondal, Kolkata. The NEZCC participated by sending a Bihu troupe consisting of 15 members.

72.       Celebration of Harvest Festival

This festival was organized by Dimasa Kachari, Dimapur on 27 January, 2007 at Dimapur, Nagaland. The NEZCC co-sponsored the festival.

73.       Inter State Folk Festival

The festival was organized by EZCC, Kolkata from January 29 – 30, 2007 at Madhusudhan Mancha, Kolkata. The NEZCC participated by sending a cultural troupe from Arunachal Pradesh consisting of 15 members.

74.       Choral Singing Festival, Aizawl, Mizoram

The Choral singing Festival was held on February 7 & 8, 2007 at Aizawl, Mizoram. Altogether 70 artistes from Assam, Meghalaya and Mizoram attended the Festival. The festival was inaugurated by His Excellency, Lt. Gen. M.M. Lakhera, Governor of Mizoram at Vanapa Hall on 7^th February, 2007 and Dr. Lalzama, Minister of Art & Culture, Mizoram, was the Guest of Honour.  His Excellency, Lt. General, M.M. Lakhera, the Governor of Mizoram in his inaugural address spoke of the beauty of diversity in Culture. He encouraged the artistes to interact with one another and learn about each other’s Culture. Choral troupes from Assam, Meghalaya and Mizoram presented special songs at the festival.          

75.       Basanta Utsav

The WZCC, Udaipur organized the Utsav from February 9 -18, 2007 at Sanskriti Kunj Gandhinagar. The NEZCC participated by sending 4 (four) cultural troupes from Manipur, Assam, Mizoram and Tripura, consisting of 58 artistes.

76.       3^rd National Workshop of Local Healers

The workshop was organized by IGRMS at Bhopal from February 14 – 18, 2007 at Bhopal. The NEZCC sponsored 2 artistes from Nagaland.

77.       Folk Theatre Festival

The NCZCC, Allahabad organized this festival in collaboration with Zonal Cultural Centres from February 18 – 25, 2007 at Sri Ram Centre, New Delhi. The NEZCC sponsored a theatre group from Assam consisting of 20 members.

78.       Natya Parampara (Traditional)

A two day Natya Parampara, a festival of traditional theatre, was organized by North East Zone Cultural Centre in collaboration with Department of Cultural Affairs, Assam on February 24 & 25, 2007 at Natya Mandir Sivasagar, Assam. Eminent Theatre Personality Shri Jogen Chetia, Ex. President of Assam Natya Sanmilan inaugurated the festival while Dr. K.K. Dwivedi, IAS, Deputy Commissioner of Sivasagar and Eminent Educationist and Musician Dr. Anil Saikia graced the occasion as Guests of Honour.

The theatre group from Assam staged “ Ankiya Mukha Bhouna and “Shyomontok Horan” and “Amanba Lambiside”. A 90 minutes play based on the story of a poor and innocent orphan named “Mamthoi”  was also staged by  Shumang Leela group (a Team of Peace Maker Artistes Association, Imphal) Manipur. Altogether 48 artistes were participated in the festival.

79.       Inter State Cultural Festival, Mizoram

A two day Inter State Cultural Festival coinciding with Chapchar Kut Festival was organized in collaboration with Art & Culture, Government of Mizoram on March 8 & 9, 2007 at 8^th Assam Rifle Ground, Aizawl, Mizoram. The two day festival was inaugurated by Dr. Lalzama, Hon’ble Minister for Art & Culture, Government of Mizoram and Shri Vanlalhuma, Secretary, Art & Culture, Government of Mizoram chaired the inaugural function. Lt. General M. M. Lakhera, His Excellency the Governor of Mizoram and Shri Zoranthanga, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Mizoram were the Chief Guest and Guest of Honour at the valedictory function of the festival. His Excellency the Governor of Mizoram awarded the NEZCC’s Young Talented Artistes Award for 2006 - 2007 to Shri Zaihminthanga(Traditional musical instrument), Shri Vanlalfela (Painting), Shri Thangkima (Basketry) and Km Lalmalsawmi(Mat weaving) at the valedictory function. Altogether 77 artistes from Mizoram, Nagaland, Meghalaya and Manipur participated in the festival presenting a variety of tribal dances.

80.       University Students Cultural Meet

This meet was organized in collaboration with the Department of Cultural Affairs, Government of Assam, at Shilpgram, Guwahati on March 12 – 13, 2007. This meet was organized under the NCEP. A Seminar was conducted on March 13, 2006 under the theme “Multicoloured and Multidimensional Cultural Activities as the only means to integrate the country”. Altogether 77 University students from Rabindra Vharati University, Kolkata, Nagaland University, Dibrugarh University, Guwahati University and Arunachal University participated in this meet.

During the festival the NEZCC awarded Young Talented Awards for 2006 – 2007 to Shri Champak Choudhury, Assam (Traditional Musical Instrument), Shri. Nikhil Ch. Paul, Assam (Crafts), Shri Amar Jyoti Sarma Assam (Painting), Shri Dharmendra Prasad (Painting), Shri Kikruloungyu, Nagaland (Theatre) and Shri Nishant, Sikkim (Tabla Player).

81.       Folk Dance Festival & Workshop, Agartala

A three day Folk Dance Festival & Workshop was organized by the NEZCC in collaboration with Department of ICAT, Government of Tripura from March 18 – 20, 2007 at Agartala. The festival was inaugurated by Smt. Bijoy Laxmi Singh, Hon’ble Minister, Handloom & Handicrafts Department, Government of Tripura by lighting the lamp of the festival on March 18, 2007 at 6:25 P.M. at Rabindra Satabashikti Bhawan, Agartala. During the festival, 78 students from the various Sub-Divisions of Agartala were given an opportunity to interact and learn various art from six (6) different cultural troupes consisting of 85 artistes. Art forms such as the Bhameil Pratapgjar, Lebang Bomani, Bizhu, Kanchanpur, Hozagiri of Tripura and the Bihu dance of Assam and Lai – Haraoba of Manipur were taught to students during the festival. 

82.       1^st Northeast Poetry Festival – 2007

The 1^st North East Poetry Festival 2007 was held at Shilpgram, Guwahati from the 21^st March to 23^rd March, 2007. Dr. Jhujhunwala, Editor Eastern Panorama who graced the occasion as the Chief Guest expressed immense pleasure for initiating such a venture and suggested that the festival should be made into a regular annual event. During the festival, films and documentaries were also screened for the participants. A film on “AKA”, a 12^th century poet, who was resigned to living her life without clothes in the belief that she would achieve salvation through her writings, was screened. This was followed by a documentary on Nelson Mandela. A documentary on the lives of prominent writers and insurgency on Nagaland and Kashmir also won the hearts of the audience. His Excellency Shri S. C. Jamir the Governor of Goa was the Chief Guest on the Closing function and Shri Anil Sakar, Hon’ble Minister for ICAT, Government of Tripura was the Guest of Honour. The Northeast Poetry Festival 2007 included screening of documentaries, films, readings, workshops, translation workshops, book exhibitions, deliberations on the state of poetry in the Northeast and was a tremendously successful event.

83.       Workshop on Making of Traditional Musical Instruments of Meghalaya

An eight days workshop on the making of traditional musical instruments of Meghalaya was held from March 20 – 28, 2007 at Central Library Building Complex, Shillong. The workshop was inaugurated by the Director, Art & Culture, Smt. D. Syiem, MCS. During this workshop, experts/master craftsmen from the Garo and Khasi community demonstrated to the students participants the art of making Percussion Instruments like Nakra, Ksing Shynrang and Ksing Kynthei (Khasi/Jaintia Percussion Instruments) and the Dama (Garo Percussion Instruments). Altogether 30 students and 8 experts participated in the workshop and worked together at making 5 sets of three traditional instruments. During this festival the NEZCC also gave away the Young Talented Awards for 2006 -2007 to Shri David Copperfield, Meghalaya (Wood Carving) and Shri January Kharshing, Meghalaya (Traditional Musical Instrument).

84.       5^th Day Folk Singing Dance Programme

The programme was organized by NZCC, Patiala from March 23 – 29, 2007 at various places at Jammu. The NEZCC participated in the programme by sending a troupe consisting of a 15 member Cheraw troupe from Mizoram.

85.       Training on Conflict Resolution & Peace Building Capacity

This Seminar was organized by Indian Confederation of Indigenous & Tribal Peoples of North East Zone from March 24 – 29, 2007 at Shilpgram, Guwahati. The NEZCC co-sponsored the programme.

85.       Artistes Workshop cum Exhibition, Agartala

The Artistes Workshop cum Exhibition was organized at Agartala from March 21 – 25, 2007 by the NEZCC in collaboration with the Department of ICAT, Government of Tripura. The theme of the workshop was “to encourage tribal people to interact more among themselves”.The five day long workshop was inaugurated by renowned painter Shri Chinmay Roy, Ex. Principal of Tripura Government Art and Crafts College. The inaugural function was presided by Assistant Director, ICAT, Government of Tripura. Altogether 10 (ten) painters participated in the workshop.

86.       Mask Making Workshop

A five day Mask Making Workshop was organized by the NEZCC in collaboration with Department of Art & Culture, Government of Manipur from March 26 – 30, 2007 at Imphal, Manipur. The workshop was inaugurated by Dr. N. Tombi Singh, Member Governing Body/Programme Committee, NEZCC. Shri P. Parijat Singh, Hon’ble Minister for Art & Culture, Government of Manipur was the Chief Guest on valedictory function and awarded the NEZCC’s Young Talented Artistes Award for 2006 - 2007 to Miss. Leishangthem Janeeta Chanu, Manipur (Martial Arts), Shri Y. Dijen Singh, Manipur (Martial Arts), Shri L. Nongdamba Meitei, Manipur (Traditional Musical Instrument), and Shri L. Ngouba Meitei (Painting) at the valedictory function. Altogether 30 artistes participated including 1 (one) resource person and 2 assistants in the workshop.

SHILPGRAM ACTIVITIES

1.         Puppetry Workshop

A fifteen day production oriented cum training Workshop on Puppetry was organized by the NEZCC at Shilpgram from February 12 – 26, 2007. The Workshop was inaugurated by Shri Pritam Saikia, Joint Secretary, Department of Cultural Affairs, Government of Assam.  The participants learned the intricate art of puppetry during this workshop, while focusing on using this art form as a medium for relaying relevant social messages as well as reviving and preserving traditional folklore. Shri M. K. Barooah, IAS, Commissioner & Secretary, Department of Cultural Affairs was the Chief Guest on the valedictory function.

2.         Peace through Culture

The North East Zone Cultural Centre, Dimapur organized a one day Cultural Nite in collaboration with Song & Drama Division, Guwahati on February 24, 2007 at Shilpgram Auditorium, Guwahati. The Cultural Nite started with a group song “Bare Barania” followed by a variety of cultural presentations by the artistes of the Song & Drama Division. The programme ended with a rousing rendition of the popular song “Sare Jahanse Acha”.

3.         Cultural Programme

A five day cultural programme was organized at Shilpgram by inviting Arunudi Silpi Sangha Troupe, Guwahati from February 27 to March 3, 2007.

4.         Fish Mela

The Mela was organized in collaboration with the Department of Fisheries, Government of Assam at Shilpgram, Guwahati from March 6 – 8, 2007.