Plough, song and story: Mao women bring ancestral traditions to life
Source: The Sangai Express

Senapati, April 11 2026: The Mao Naga Women Welfare Association organised a vibrant cultural programme at the Asufii Football Academy Ground on Saturday, bringing together women from across Mao Village in a unique celebration of tradition, heritage and community.

Held under the theme "Opfope Ozhido Vano Asa Azhu Kocho," the event witnessed the participation of 32 units of women societies from different parts of Mao Village.

The programme, one of the first initiatives of the association, aimed at reviving traditional practices and encouraging younger generations to appreciate the rich cultural heritage of the Mao community.

Plough, song and story: Mao women bring ancestral traditions to life

Deputy Chief Minister Losii Dikho graced the occasion as the chief guest, while Koshoni Phimu, Joint Secretary to the Government of Manipur, graced the occasion as the guest of honour.

The programme featured four traditional competitions reflecting cultural practices once commonly performed by the forefathers of the Mao community.

Among them was "Lota Dado Sokava Kocho," where participants demonstrated the traditional process of ploughing the field, planting seeds, weeding crops and harvesting, a symbolic representation of the agricultural life that once defined the community.

Another highlight was "Dekava Kocho," a lively performance in which women showcased their strength and agility through a traditional jumping display, drawing cheers from the audience.

Music and folklore also formed an important part of the celebration.

In "Lokabvii Ka Kava Kocho," participants played a traditional guitar while singing folklore songs, bringing back memories of stories and songs passed down through generations.

Meanwhile, "Khetsii Khe Kava Kocho" featured the traditional mouth-string instrument, where performers produced unique rhythmic sounds by pulling a string placed in the mouth.

Those present at the event included leaders from several organisations such as the Mao Council, Mao Students' Union, former ADC Ashikho Kapani, the Mao Officers' Union, Ememei Empowerment Initiatives, and the Mao National Worker Forum.

Addressing the gathering, Deputy Chief Minister Losii Dikho encouraged the community to continue preserving folklore and cultural practices while also adapting them in meaningful ways.

While many traditional songs focused on war themes, he suggested that new songs celebrating happiness, gratitude and praise to God could also be composed and included during festivals.

Dikho also stressed the importance of education and thanked the womenfolk for their efforts.

On the occasion, Koshoni Phimu Joint Secretary, GAD & Horticulture reflected on the deep connection between culture and family traditions.

She said the culture of the Mao people is unique and admired by many, and encouraged the community not to forget the values and traditions taught by their elders.

Expressing hope for the future, she said she believes the initiatives taken by the Mao Naga Women Welfare Association will continue to empower women and strengthen cultural identity.