Film Screening of "Aoleang"
Date: Mon Feb 06, 2017 - Mon Feb 06, 2017
Location: Asian Confluence Centre, Shillong , Hosts: Asian Confluence
Location: Asian Confluence Centre, Shillong , Hosts: Asian Confluence
To revive the lost glory of Aoleang, Nagaland’s biggest traditional festival, Asian Confluence organised a documentary screening followed by an interactive panel discussion to showcase the fighting spirits of the Konyak Naga tribe with weaponry. The purpose of the event was to promote the indigenous cultures of Northeast India, which are gradually dying out with time due to low participation and support.
Aoleang is the main festival of the Konyaks from northern Nagaland. It is celebrated in the first week of April, every year to mark the beginning of a new year with the spring season. This festival also showcases the rich cultural heritage, with indigenous dances, songs and games combined with the modern musical talents of the district. It aims to develop relationships between the government and the people, bridging the communication gap, promoting peace, culture and progress. The main object of the Aoleang is celebrating the presence Wangwan, the divine spirit of blessing.
The documentary screening enthralled the audience with its unique cultural experience and provided the perfect platform to stimulate a discussion on reviving such cultures. The panel discussion highlighted and touched upon key questions of identity, cultural memory, and the gradual decline of the cultural spirit. The event also exhibited the force that pushes such mnemocultural formations towards resurgence and preservation of the people’s way of life.
