Summary of TDF Bootcamp Kohima
- October 02 - 04 2024 : Tribal Design Forum -

Tribal Design Forum Kohima Bootcamp

Tribal Design Forum Kohima Bootcamp: Day 1 Highlights

The first day of the TDF Boot Camp began with a welcome address by Margaret Zinyu, followed by an introduction by Shweta Guria on tribal documentary and animation films.

Key screenings included 4 documentaries, 4 music videos, and 1 animated short film:

Documentaries:
o Honey Hunters of My Village by Thangsoi Khiamniuangan
o Rearing Giants by Thejavikho Chase and Dipen Rangmang
o Log Drum of Pessao by Millo Tako and team

Music Videos:
o Kung Kung Go by Sofiyum
o Amazing Nature Sounds by Human Voice by Snow Raven
o Jaduni Somoi by Koloma Band
o Genesis by OTYEKN

Animated Short Film:
o Jaradakgiparang (Idiots) by Chedil K Marak

Filmmakers Thangsoi and Theja Rio participated in discussions on indigenous filmmaking, cultural appropriation, and stereotypes. The day ended with workshops exploring film themes, setting the tone for the following sessions.

Tribal Design Forum Kohima Bootcamp: Day 2 Highlights

The second day of the Tribal Design Forum Bootcamp was a remarkable journey through the cultural landscape of Nagaland and beyond. From the traditional art forms of the region to the innovative use of technology, the event showcased the resilience, creativity, and rich heritage of tribal communities. By highlighting the importance of economic empowerment, sustainable tourism, and cultural preservation, the bootcamp provided a valuable platform for dialogue and collaboration.

Screenings :

1. Documentary | Walking in Two Worlds by The North Face.
2.Documentary | Ancestral Echoes by Fileone Endoxa Dkhar.
3. Music Video | O Rhosi by Tetseo Sisters.

Talk | Presentation :

1. Historical Overview: Vizovono Elizabeth provided a comprehensive overview of Kohima's history and contemporary landscape.

2. Anthology of Nagaland: Angula Zoe Longkumer shared insights into the region's cultural richness.

3. Clay Art Workshop: Arak M Sangma demonstrated the connection between Garos and clay, allowing participants to engage in hands-on activities.

4. Virtual Reality Experience: Architect Ankur Chandran presented a VR experience showcasing the Warli tribal community's lifestyle, art, and culture through Project ‘Forest in The City’ carried out by KRVIA.

5. Meghalayan Age Project: Gopal Krishnan discussed how the project empowers Meghalaya's tribal communities through design interventions and government support. This initiative has played a key role in giving these communities international exposure and representation.

Panel Discussion

6. The panelists discussed the importance of sustainable tourism practices and the role of design interventions in promoting tribal heritage. Veyielo Doulo from the Nagaland government's Department of Tourism shared the government's plans and initiatives for promoting tourism in the region. Rida Gatophoh from Dakti Craft, Rohan Abram, CEO of India trail, Anupam Purty from RUMBUL were panelists in the discussion moderated by Dr. Anugrah Pandi.

Fashion and Tribal Identity

7. The day concluded with a vibrant fashion show that showcased the ethnic collection of fashion designer Daniel Syiem. The show was a celebration of tribal identity and the fusion of traditional designs with contemporary aesthetics. The presence of Kuvelu from the Tetseo Sisters as the showstopper added a touch of stardom to the event.

Culture Day at Bootcamp, participants wearing traditional clothing of their tribe

Introduction

The third and final day of the Tribal Design Forum Kohima Bootcamp concluded with insightful discussions on tribal art, skills, technology, tourism, and policy design. The session commenced with a brief introduction by Anupam Purti, a TDF member, who emphasized the forum's role in connecting tribal communities across India with global experts.

Screenings :
1. Music Video |Quiet a story by Takar Nabam
2.Documentary | Laitiam by Lapdiang Artimal Syiem
3. Music Video | Rukom ka Ri (The many lives of Land Land) by Rida & The Musical Folk
4. Documentary | The Lost Art of Artisanal Textiles by Chentei Khiammnungan

Talks | Presentation

1. Intellectual Property : The first session featured Hetvi Trivedi, a GI expert from the World Intellectual Property Organization, who discussed the significance of IP rights for tribal communities. She provided an overview of India's IP law framework and its application in protecting tribal art and culture.

2. Self Designed Education : Abhijit Sinha from Bangalore followed with a presentation on his "Design for Yourself" project, which promotes community-based non-formal education systems. Sinha highlighted the success of these systems in Meghalaya, leading to the establishment of 22 "nooks" where young people can explore their unique abilities and find suitable work.

3. Nagaland's Textile Traditions and Crafts : Padma Shri awardee Sentila Yanger delivered a comprehensive presentation on the intricate designs, weaving techniques,symbolism and stories found in traditional Naga attire.

4. Linoka Shiku added to the conversation by exploring the languishing crafts of Nagaland and their connection to the local ecology.

(L) Padmashree Sentila Yanger during her talk at TDF Bootcamp ; (R) Linoka Shiku explaining role of local ecology in traditional textile

(L) GI Expert Hetvi Trivedi during her talk at boot camp ; (R) Abhijit Sinha breaking down conventional education though ‘DEFY’

Panel Discussion

o Government Support,Policy Initiatives and ANNOUNCEMENT OF 1000 TDF SSC SCHOLARSHIPS.

A significant moment came with the visit of Hekani Jakhalu, the first female MLA of Nagaland and Advisor to the Nagaland government on Industry and Commerce. She visited artisans of Woven Thread and observed traditional weaving techniques. Hekani lauded the TDF bootcamp for its efforts in preserving and elevating tribal culture, traditions, and tourism. She assured the Tribal Design Forum of her full support. TDF was glad to launch 1000 TDF SSC Scholarship at the event to provide free of cost study material to the needy SSC aspirant from Nagaland, application will be open from 15th Oct,2024 on www.tribaldesignforum.com

MLA of Nagaland and Advisor to the Nagaland government on Industry and Commerce. at Conference Hall in TDF Bootcamp.

o Panel Discussion on Innovation and Development

The bootcamp concluded with a panel discussion featuring Er H. Alongse Sangtam, Joint Director of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship, Government of Nagaland, T. Nengshi Wati, T. Nengshi Wati, Senior Investment Officer at the Investment & Development Authority of Nagaland (IDAN); Margaret Zinyu founder of Woven Thread, and moderator Dr. Anugrah Pandi. The panel discussed topics related to innovation in Nagaland's art, skills, and culture, and explored how design interventions can drive sustainable tourism and the development of local crafts.