North East Institute of Social Sciences and Research (NEISSR), Peace Centre, 7th Mile Chumoukedima, in collaboration with Clefnote Music Academy, organized a grand Cultural-cum-Literary Day on 28th April 2025 at the BAM Hall, NEISSR under the theme ‘Waving Words, Wearing Heritage’.
The occasion was graced by Shri Theja Meru, Chairman of the Task Force for Music and Arts (TaFMA), Government of Nagaland, as the Special Guest, and Dr. Tolto Metha, Team Member of the Nagaland Bamboo Development Agency, Government of Nagaland, as a distinguished guest.
Special Guest Shri Theja Meru expressed profound gratitude to NEISSR for cultivating not only academic excellence but also nurturing talent, beauty with brains, and intelligence that contribute to the pride of the North East and India as a whole. Citing the visionary ideals of Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, Shri Meru exhorted the youth to embrace the culture of dreaming big, stating unequivocally that to dream small is a crime. He urged students to translate their dreams into reality through hard work, smart strategies, and a resilient spirit.
Highlighting key elements of success, Shri Meru called for the emulation of the Japanese work culture, particularly the ethos of Toyota—marked by dedication, team spirit, harmony, continuous improvement, punctuality, mutual respect, and long-term vision. He exhorted the gathering to believe in their own abilities, to discard the culture of blame, and to cultivate leadership rooted in action, perseverance, and innovation. He emphasized that dreams must not be confined to the boundaries of the State or the North East but must aspire to contribute significantly to the larger national landscape. “Dream big and do big, not only for Nagaland and the North East but for the glory of India,” he remarked with fervor.
Rev. Dr. C.P. Anto, Principal of NEISSR, delivered an exhortation speech emphasizing the need for collective responsibility in preserving, protecting, and promoting the invaluable cultural heritage of the region. He expressed deep appreciation to Shri Theja Meru for his relentless efforts in safeguarding the artistic traditions of Nagaland and the North East. Dr. Anto also acknowledged the vital role played by the Church in promoting education and cultural identity, reiterating that culture is the very soul and fabric of a people. He called upon every individual to become active custodians of their heritage as a contribution to peacebuilding and nation-building.
The programme was anchored by Ms. Liki K. Zhimo and Mr. Thangeingam Rainam, Social Work trainees of NEISSR. Mr. Yantsumong J. Yimchunger, Cultural Secretary of the Student Council (SCSC), delivered the Welcome Address.
A wide array of folk performances—including songs and dances representing diverse tribes of Nagaland and the North East—were showcased, reflecting the rich cultural mosaic of the region. Various literary and cultural competitions further enhanced the spirit of the event, fostering creativity and cultural pride among the participants. The event concluded with a Vote of Thanks proposed by Mr. Barnic R. Gangmei, Assistant Professor at NEISSR.
NEISSR DESK
https://morungexpress.com/theja-meru-urges-youth-to-dream-big
