Jaipur: The cultural richness of Northeast India came alive at the Rajasthan International Centre (RIC) during Octave-2026, as a vibrant choir performance by young singers from Nagaland and colourful traditional folk dances captivated the audience.
The 10-member choir group from Nagaland, comprising Gen-Z and Gen-Alpha singers aged between 10 and 22 years, performed under the direction of Bethal Suzu. Dressed in choir gowns, Spanish skirts and glittering outfits, the young performers presented a mix of songs from Nagaland and the Northeast. Especially for the Jaipur audience, they also performed popular Hindi songs including Papa Kehte Hain, Bada Naam Karega and Jubi Jubi, which received enthusiastic applause.
The choir also presented Adiemus, Crazy Little Thing, Dynamite and Can't Stop the Beat, with the audience enjoying every beat and melody. The performers’ live outfit changes were another highlight, drawing appreciation from the spectators. Interestingly, the artists had worn multiple outfits layered over one another, allowing them to change costumes instantly during the performance.
The programme was organised on Saturday at RIC as part of Octave-2026, organised by the West Zone Cultural Centre, Udaipur, under the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, in collaboration with RIC. A specially designed stage showcasing the folk culture of Northeast India provided the backdrop for the performances.
Before the choir presentation, classical and folk performances including Manipuri Raas and Sattriya dance also mesmerised the audience. The subsequent performances representing various northeastern states showcased the region’s diverse traditions.
The Tai Khamti dance of Arunachal Pradesh, popularly known as the Peacock Dance, created a spiritual atmosphere associated with Lord Buddha. From Manipur, the energetic Pung Cholom performance, featuring dancers playing drums and performing acrobatic movements, filled the venue with energy. The Thang-Ta, a traditional martial art using swords and spears, showcased the region’s historic warfare skills, while Lai Haraoba also received loud applause.
The Hojagiri dance of Tripura left the audience amazed as performers balanced themselves on earthen pots while dancing with bottles and lamps placed on their heads and plates held in their hands. Singhi Chham of Sikkim, featuring performers dressed as snow lions, added a spectacular visual element.
The Wangala dance of Meghalaya depicted the traditional thanksgiving ritual to the Sun God, Saljong, for a good harvest. Assam’s energetic Bihu dance, traditionally performed during the harvest season, also won appreciation. The Sarlamkai (Solakia) dance of Mizoram, depicting the celebration of victory in war, filled the audience with enthusiasm.
The powerful traditional Naga War Dance of Nagaland featured rhythmic drum beats, war cries, energetic footwork and martial movements, leaving the spectators spellbound. The Cheirou Jagoi, or stick dance, from Manipur further energised the audience, with dancers displaying remarkable skill by swiftly rotating sticks using their wrists and fingers.
During the programme, West Zone Cultural Centre, Udaipur Director Dr Ashwin Dalvi and North Central Zone Cultural Centre, Prayagraj Director Sudesh Sharma honoured all participants of the painting camp by presenting them with mementoes and certificates.
Students Appreciate Painting Camp
As part of Octave-2026, around 250 students from Kendriya Vidyalayas and 60 students from Vanasthali visited the ongoing painting camp and exhibition at RIC on Saturday. The students interacted with the participating artists, learnt about their artworks and observed the paintings closely, appreciating the creativity and artistic expressions on display.