Community Cafe, a hot spot for Ukhrul youths
Source: Hueiyen News Service / Pamreiso Shimray
Ukhrul, September 01 2013:
Life in a sleepy small Ukhrul town is getting differently livelier! All thanks to Community Cafe that has been impacting people with novel musical and artistic treat.
A few walks from Gandhi Chowk in Ukhrul would take one down to Community Cafe, where the youths love to rush in at weekend for a soulful of music and a mouthful of coffee.
That's not all - it's an emerging haunt for people of all ages to discuss politics and social issues.
In just less than three-month time since opening, the place has become the talking point in town hosting a series of in-house gigs inviting local talents and dialogue on divergent topics.
''This project is to connect and inspire people...to stir minds in bringing about a positive change in society,''says Aran Chihui, the man behind this novel initiative.
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On Saturday last, the cafe oragnised the Ukhrul's first 'Pop Country and Slow Rock Concert' by inviting local child prodigy Lanlan and many other young talents to a packed house.
To realise his long cherished dream, Aran gave up a lucrative job in corporate sector and returned home from Bangalore.
He also admitted that Theja Meru, the owner of Dream Cafe project at Kohima, inspired him in certain way.
Chak De India actress Masochon @ Molly Zimik is simply impressed by Aran's initiative.
''...has created a platform for budding local talents and healthy spot for young minds to meet and discuss,'' she quips.
For the 30-year old Aran, the project is a challenging venture.
However, he has further plans to incorporate in his cafe academic activities for students, display of indigenous art, handicraft and photo exhibition, entirely from the works of local artists and photographers.
How are the projects in Community Cafe run and survive? .
He gives part-time job to college goers on rotational basis and never expect monetary gains from his venture.
''...never expect any profits from my cafe.
If it simply helps me sustain the projects, I am okay.
My project is a social and selfless service,'' relates Aran.
In two-week time, the place will have an office and library while the owner is gearing up for career counselling for students on regular basis.
Youth activist VVngam Shatsang, who after visiting the cafe, feels ''More of this place should come up in Ukhrul town.
This project is definitely an agent for change at different levels in Tangkhul society.'' In the past couple of months, Aran has initiated dialogues on bandh culture, corruption, drug and alcohol abuse, entrepreneurship, Naga politics among others.