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photo speak This beautiful scene of a lightning was captured by amateur photographer Kevi Viswentso Angami with a simple camera on April 15, 2013 from a terrace at Mohonkhola in Kohima. The sponteneity and natural scheme makes the photograph Mirror Plus’ Photo of The Week. Camera: Sony SteadyShot DSC-W620 Kevi Viswentso Angami is a photography enthusiast. He is presently working with the Kohima Komets Spoting Club Private Ltd. “My interest mainly include taking random photographs anytime a camera is in my hand,” says our man.
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NAGA HEA
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D HUNTER
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its release and keep in mind that the visual effects were “Made in Nagaland” The main hindrances we faced were mostly the power and internet connectivity and really cold weather, as it was during winter. Moreover, we were working for an overseas client and proper internet connectivity was very essential for communication and file transfers, but none of the internet services offered in Nagaland was not up to the mark. We really, really hope the power and communication sector improves in Nagaland, not only for our benefit, but for Nagas as a whole.
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have also produced music videos for Nagaland based artistes - Azure Delusion, OFF, Chan Kikon and Mengu Suokhrie. The NHH members are Liyo Kikon, Lanso Yanthan, Ashemo Ezung, Kele Yhoshu and Aben Ngullie. EM: Many people give up when things don’t come their way but you guys have come so far? What is the secret? NHH: The secret to anything is belief, perseverance and hard work. We have always received love, support and encouragement from our families, friends and well wishers and even strangers and they have helped a lot. We have our share of skeptics and critics as well, but they are all part of the package and we have learned to accept them and be wiser and move on. Moreover, even within our
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These geeks prowl by th and have b e name of ‘ e The Headhu e n s pearheadin assertive re nters’ g (no pun) a s volution in ilent but Nagaland a waves. Thei n d making b r skills are m ig them arked on hi multimedia to the g h-end products ra scene. We nging from animations nearly ended up 3D to music vid making the entire store, but eos. The geeky warri the trick was to make sure that ors were rec no one could differentiate the 3D ently ambushed elements from the real ones which by our writ were already there. As they say, e r the best Visual Effects are the ones Yupangnen which the audiences don’t notice. l a Longkumer I hope that people staying in cities will watch the film in theaters after
of youngsters started making short films as a casual pursuit but as time went by it changed their ‘kismet’ for better. Yes, the ‘Naga Head Hunters Entertainment’ has yet again reached another milestone – the geeks were hired by an Indo-Canadian film production house to edit a film and add special effects to it. One can imagine the hardship they must have gone through while trying to meet the deadline especially with the power supply so erratic in Nagaland. However, they gave their best shot and the project was completed. It has been informed that the Canadian client was pleased with the finished work. The bilingual film – Crossroads is yet to be released. The film is written and directed by Edris Ne and produced by Hasina Kayhan (Just4u Productions). For the freshers, the Naga Head Hunters Entertainment was founded by Liyo Kikon and started its movie making venture in 2005 with a short film named - Reborn but due to some unforeseen circumstances, they were not able to finish the project. However, they managed to release a preview, which received quite a lot of positive responses from the viewers. The next project was F.A.K.E. (First Assault Kontrol and Extraction unit), which was a hit among youngsters. The other projects were ‘Naga Jedi’, Liquidators, The Debt and the animated film Puliebadzie, which is based on a book by Easterine Kire, “Naga folktales retold”. They
April 20, 2013
group, we have always supported and encouraged each other to bring out the best we can. To serve quality content is what we strive for and it is something we will never compromise on. EM: Tell me something about the recent project - Crossroads? What were the problems you faced? NHH: “Crossroads” is a bilingual (Hindi/English) film made by a Canadian Indian film maker. We were involved in post production and our job was to edit various scenes and add visual effects. The visual effects in this film were really challenging, we made not only the guns and blood effects for the films, but in some shots, we had to recreate new elements. For example, in one of the scenes, there was a jewelry store where we created 3D elements and added
EM: How do you feel about the accomplishments you guys have achieved so far? NHH: As a group of artists, we do feel very proud of our accomplishments so far. There is always a feeling of immense pride and satisfaction in bringing smiles on people’s faces. The feeling really is priceless. EM: What is the next big plan? Any plans to collaborate with Nagaland based film makers? NHH: The next big plan would be to expand our studio and get more people involved and produce more films with exceptional content. Yes, we are always open to collaborations with other Nagaland based film makers. EM: How do you see your production house - Naga Head Hunters Entertainment in another decade? NHH: Hopefully, in another decade, our production house will have become something to be reckoned with, and not just a small group started by young like-minded enthusiastic people. Something that people can look up to and be inspired. The possibilities are limitless.
Know your NHH geeks better
Lanso Yanthan: I am a very open minded fun loving person as a whole. I never let stress get the better of me when I work, but then again I am very critical of my own work. I am very passionate about a lot of things particularly music (all genre), fine arts, sports, photography and word games. I am also crazy about comic books, and stand-up comedy. My strength would be my willingness to learn new things and the support I get from everyone. I’m always open to suggestions and feedbacks so as to evolve and tackle problems and bring out the best output I can. If something doesn’t work, scrap it and start again.
Liyo Kikon: I am a Geek! I love working with technology, I have a very active imagination and I love making films since that is one of the best platform to create what’s on my mind into something visual. I enjoy playing the guitar and listening to Brit-rock music. My dream is to help build a film industry in Nagaland, I know that we still have decades to accomplish that dream but I believe that it is not impossible. My strength would be the encouragement I receive from my loved ones - my family, my friends, my girl and most of all, my passion for films and art as a whole! and not forgetting everyone who watches our videos, they are our biggest supporters Kele Yhoshü: I am quite laid back. Like any other guy my age I love to hang out with my friends, travel and I am passionate about 3D Animation, it’s intriguing to know how much you can do with it. I also enjoy photography and my dream for NHH is a collective one when I say we want to achieve more and maybe one day make Nagaland a centre for film industry. My Strength is My Dad, my support system and my teacher. Ashemo Ezung: I am an easy going guy and I like to stay positive, an Optimist and will always accept cake... I have always been interested in art since school days and I grew up loving Films from as early an age as I can remember. When I am not working in the NHH studio, I spend time making short videos, animations, listening to music/scores. These are also my interest including travelling. My dream is to see the NHH make it to the big league and be an inspiration for the younger generations. I draw my strength from my family, Friends and the well-wishers of NHH. Aben Ngullie: I am a quite person, observant and friendly. Loves traveling and meeting new people from different cultures and places. Have always been interested in music from a young age. And decided to take sound engineering as my career since class 7. Will always be amazed with new sounds or instruments. Loves playing the guitar and listening to music of all genres rock, psychedelic, electronic etc. I just started my career as a sound engineer. Did my studies from S.A.E College Chennai. My dream is to be a successful person make good quality sounds (music ). And maybe in the future start a music label and a good industry standard studio. My biggest strength is my family they have always been very supportive in whatever I do, guiding me to the right direction. Very lucky to have an understanding, supportive parents.
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Mirror Plus
Eastern Mirror | Dimapur Saturday | April 20 | 2013
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pology to all readers for being very private On every first Sunday of the year, I made it a point to be together with my family. This time round, as we spent sometime reading together some verses from the Bible, my children asked me to share my childhood experience. Perhaps, it was a fine moment to do it, and this can be seen as an opportunity for parents to convey their children important lessons about life. But I told them that it was not very proper to share at a prayerful moment. But honestly I couldn’t be sure about what I had to say, because there’s no way of knowing what exactly happened at specific point of time back then. Recalling childhood or for that matter, memory is a very complex phenomenon. Without repetition or meaning, most memories fade away. As adults, when we look back to our childhood, there is typically no clear memory of early events. However, even though we don’t really have a memory of the original event, a verbal memory of these early experiences is often retained in our minds. Precisely, we tend to develop episodic or autobiographical memory of our earlier days. My mind flashed back on some memorable incidents of the glories days….. riding handmade go-carts, digging dung beetles and watching them fight, playing hide and seek, playing war games in the jungles. Infact we did every crazy things. We spent time in the woods when we were given study leave before final exams and read aloud sitting on tree tops. I tried to explain what I remembered and share my past but I was a bit hesitant because I thought it would be improper to narrate our naughty activities. Bloody fights were a daily routine. We fight over a safety pin.
safety pins, we didn’t fight with one hand holding our pants. However, one problem was that I once fell into debts because of safety a pin. It was after school an older friend of mine told me to come to his house after lunch. But I didn’t go. He - by Ngathingkhui Jagoi demanded that I should give him a safety pin because I failed my promise. I gave but the interest compounded every minute that I had to steal Rs 1 0r Rs 2 everyday from my auntie’s box. Since I could not bear the demands and the thrashings if I couldn’t pay him; and fearing that I would be caught one day for stealing money, I finally fled to Imphal to my maternal aunt.” After hearing my story about safety pins, they all had a hearty laugh. However, as I conMany a time, fighting was for hand had to grab our hookless tinued my lecture with advises pants from falling. Those who no reason at all. We fought by comparing my early days could own safety pin(s) were just because our seniors with that their comfortable lucky during fights because asked us to fight. lives, they lost their attention To be very frank, I was not their pants didn’t fall. They and tried to outsmart me again. used both hands to punch prepared to narrate all these Obviously good advices are dull wild past of my life. However, their opponents’ noses and lectures. made the other bloody. at their insistence, I told However, as for me, I estabSafety pins were precious them about safety pins. And lished the long-past memories in my childhood days. We this is what I told them: of my childhood by repeating really made use of it for vari“Our parents never care it. Without repetition or meanous purposes. We used it to about how we wear our ing, most memories fade away. scratch out foreign objects like dresses once they bought it And in this manner, I believe thorns that had pinned inside for us in our childhood days. our parents and grandparents our feet while playing hide It was only during Christmas passed their history down …. and seek or war games in the time that we were dressed There are a lot more things with new dresses. However, the woods near our homes in the to tell about, but I guess I will village. Safety pins served as new dresses soon lost its origibuttons and hooks when but- stop here. If you allow me, let nal colours in a few weeks me share more next time. My tons and hooks torn off from time. Bright dresses – white thanks to all of you for allowing our shirts and pants. It saved shirts or other light colours, it me to repeat my memories…. us from getting our noses all became dark brown with hope it helps a little :) bloody in fights…. Considerstains. Therefore, parents always made it a point that they ing the wide-ranging uses, (For any feedbacks, the writer didn’t buy light colour dresses even churches in villages gave can be contacted at away safety pins as prizes to (with exception for white shirt njagoi@yahoo.com) those who participated in uniforms) for their children games during Christmas. Peowhen they did Christmas ple were happy to get 4 – 10 shopping. Through this page, Eastern Mirror safety pins during Christmas. What’s more, as we squab- After New Year, the little shiny aims to provide a platform for Naga ble while playing, there would pins would be seen clinging writers to exhibit as well as hone be no buttons left on our their writing skills. Let the readers be on the loosen earlobes of elshirts and our pants became provoked through your art of story derly men and women or fashookless. Most of the time, we tened on the stained shirts of telling. Interested writers can send were compelled to fight with their materials to boys and girls. For sometime only one hand as the other easternmirrorplus@gmail.com months or till we lost all the
story teller
All for a safety pin
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Across 2. “I will _____ no evil; for You are with me” 4. “When a man has on the skin of his body a swelling, a ______ or a bright spot” 6. “Behold! The Lamb of God, who takes away the ____ of the world!” 9. The time at which an event occurs 11. Egypt lost its entire ___ underneath the waters of the Red Sea 14. Hymenaeus and Alexander made shipwreck of this 16. The first month of the Jewish calendar 18. A hybrid between a horse and a donkey 19. “In those days there was no _____ in Israel; everyone did what was right in his own eyes” 21. “Now the merchants and sellers of all kinds of _____ lodged outside Jerusalem once or twice.” 23. “How _____ will you slumber, O sluggard?” Prov. 6:9 26. “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and _____ not on your own understanding” 27. Place where souls of the wicked will be for eternity 28. His wife was turned into a pillar of salt 30. Satan is also known as the ___ 33. Had a church in his/her house 36. “Eye has not seen, nor _____ heard, nor have entered into the heart of man, the things which God has prepared for those who love Him.” 37. John was banished to the _____ of Patmos 39. An enemy came and sowed _______ along with the wheat 40. “Let all the inhabitants of the world stand in ____ of Him.” 41. In the future, both the just and the ___ will experience a resurrection 42. “In the beginning, ____ made the heavens and the earth.” Down 1. “But he who endures to the _____ shall be saved.” Matthew 24:13 3. First woman 5. “Give heed to the voice of my ____, my King and my God” 6. “No spring yields both _____ water and fresh.” James 3:12 7. At the present time or moment 8. Capital of Moab 10. Job or assignment to be completed by a specific time 12. Jesus said those that _____ would be comforted 13. Mary wrapped Jesus in swaddling cloths and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the _____ 14. “The harvest truly is plentiful, but the laborers are ____.” 15. Jacob’s name was changed to this 16. Jesus said, “Drink from it, all of you. For this is My blood of the_____ covenant, which is shed for many for the remission of sins.” 17. The second city taken by Joshua in Canaan. 20. Another word for happy 22. “You are the _____ of the earth; but if the ____ loses
its flavor, how shall it be seasoned?” 24. “There is ____ body and ____ Spirit, just as you were called in ____ hope of your calling; ____ Lord, ____ faith, ____ baptism.” 25. The book of 3 John was written to this man 28. “Rejoice in that day and _____ for joy!” 29. “Even so the ______ is a little member and boasts great things.” James 1:5 31. These tiny creatures formed the basis of part of Samson’s riddle to his friends 32. “Wealth makes many friends, but a poor
man is separated from his ______” Proverbs 19:4 34. “Behold, you will be _____ and not able to speak until the day these things take place” Luke 1:20 35. This city was the hometown of Abram 38. “Simon, Simon! Indeed Satan has asked for you , that he may _____ you as wheat.” Luke 22:31 40. John the Immerser said, “Even now the ___ is laid to the root of the trees.”
Answer in next issue of Mirror Plus LasT Week’s Answers
... giving Laura plenty of time to get ready
BLISS by Harry Bliss
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Little known facts about The Battle of Kohima
View of the Garrison Hill battlefield, the key to the British defences at Kohima during the Battle of Kohima in 1944.
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he Battle of Kohima (also called the ‘Stalingrad of the East’) is considered to be the turning point of the allied forces’ fortunes in South East Asia during World War Two. One of the lesserknown great battles of the war, the Battle of Kohima was fought between the British/Commonwealth forces and the 31st Division of Japan’s Imperial Army. The battle was fought from 4 April to 22 June 1944, in and around the then-small town of Kohima in India’s remote North East Region. Outnumbered 1 to 10, the allied forces routed the invading Japanese forces, thereby thwarting Imperial Japan’s ambition to invade Burma through British India. By invading India, Japan aspired to cripple the allied forces’ military campaign in strategic Burma during World War Two. Here are some comparatively ‘unknown’ facts about one of the bloodiest battles of the Second World War and one that has now come to be referred to as the ‘Stalingrad of the East.’ • When the Japanese forces began their siege of Kohima, a small, hilly outpost of a town on April 6, it was defended only by a small British and Commonwealth/ Anglo-Indian garrison of about 1,500 men under the command of Colonel Hugh Richards (before reinforcements arrived). • On the other hand, the invading 31st Division of Imperial Japan’s army came with 12, 000 troops (before reinforcements) under the command of Lieutenant General Kotoku Sato. • The battle was so grim that when the allied and Japanese forces were not engaged in hand-to-hand combat, they were literally throwing hand grenades at ‘each other’s heads and faces’ at point-blank point range. • The allied soldiers were all young, inexperienced and mostly first-time combatants. In the words of Captain Peter Steyn of the Assam Regiment: “Young and inexperienced sepoys (‘soldiers’, in Hindi) were fighting like veterans; red-hot machine gun barrels would be ripped off, regardless of burns suffered in the process; Japanese grenades and cracker-bombs were picked up and thrown clear of the trenches with all the calmness in the world and there did not seem to be a man in the garrison afraid to carry out any task given to him.” • The battle was relentless but the small allied force refused to yield the Kohima ridged to the large numbered Japanese force. A battle-wearied young private asked Colonel Hugh Richards: ‘When we die, sir is that the end or do we go on?’ • The Allied forces’ supply base at a nearby town called Dimapur held supply dumps 11 miles (18 km) miles long and 1 mile (1.6 km) wide. As the fall of Dimapur would have been disastrous for the Allies, General George Giffard, commander of the Eleventh Army Group) rushed the bigger chunk of the Allies’ troops to protect Dimapur just in case Kohima fell. • When the plan to take Kohima was being made by the Japanese commanders, Lieutenant General Kotoku Sato had already told his staff that his troops might all starve to death on the ridge. When the battle ended on June 22, about 64 days after it began, the Japanese 31st division was already decimated by starvation – one reason why the about 1,500 allied soldiers defending Kohima vanquished the 12, 000 strong invading Japanese war machine. • Lieutenant General Kotoku Sato wrote several times to his superiors that his division must retreat from Kohima. He was ordered to stand and fight each time. • Sato was inadvertently sent a telegram from his commanders congratulating him on his “capture of Kohima”. The mistake is attributed to initial confidence of the Japanese army that Kohima would be taken without much fight. Sato replied: “It is not your congratulations we want but food and ammunition.” • Before the siege of Kohima began, the Japanese took 5,000 oxen with them to feed their troops to provide meat for 50 days – the Japanese believed that the 5, 000 oxen would be sufficient as they expected to take Kohima easily. • During one occasion that Sato ordered his men to withdraw, his commander Lieutenant General Mutaguchi sent him a message: “Retreat and I will court-martial you.” Sato replied: ‘Do what you please, blockhead.’ • The Allied forces lost about a total of 4,064 men, dead, missing and wounded. The Japanese lost 5,764 battle casualties in the Kohima area, and many of the 31st Division subsequently died of diseases or starvation. • After their defeat in the Battle of Kohima, both Sato and Mutaguchi lost their field commands and were given administrative positions. Infobarrel.com
“As a friend, I pray you rest in peace. As a dog, I really want to dig you up.”
(Article by Indian Journalist Al Ngullie for Infobarrel)
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Eastern Mirror | Dimapur Saturday | April 20 | 2013
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YouthNet
Why studying abroad is a SMART Investment for your FutureAnd how to go about it. ~ Limaben Jamir
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t might sound cliché to state studying abroad is a life-changing experience and that it will heighten your educational experience, but it remains true. My recent stay in United Kingdom during my Masters course has taught me a great deal about balancing local and international challenges and building global competence. It definitely challenged me on a personal level. Whether you consciously realize it or not, you develop greater self-confidence, independence, and self-reliance. It gives you the opportunity to interact with professors I only read about in books, to participate and learn from diplomats and understand how cultures around the world influence in the upbringing of a young person. Apart from the boost in your resume you gain a different view of international affairs, fashion, music, politics, economics to social issues. You may, like me, return with a deeper understanding of different cultures and a new appreciation of our Naga society and India in general, and more effective to contribute. I would encourage our young people to study abroad but I understand that many of us, like me, may have reservations and concerns about taking this plunge and this is normal. Financial concerns, finding the right university, the right course, differences in cultures are the biggest obstacle to ponder on before landing in that dream university. But you live once right! And you may as well give it your best shot. So this is how we go about it, Prepare in advance. It is advisable to work on your application at least 12-18 months before you start your course. The bug to study abroad started during my BA second year while I was in University of Delhi. Right from that year, Google became my best friend and it should be yours too. Use Google to check the rankings of the universities, take a video tour of the universities you want to study in, interact with the professors, get access to the research papers, and discuss with students currently studying in the university. I knew my classmates, people I’d be sharing the house with and interacted with my professor’s weeks before I landed in London. Finances are a major issue for many of us. Nowadays there are various scholarships , financial aids or even educational loans. Education loans, something very new to our Naga Society, and if you thought you need to repay your education loan while you study abroad or are looking for a job, you are thinking wrong. Banks in India offer education loans which allow students to repay their loan either after completing their course or after finding a job. You can also access numerous scholarships sponsored by Governments, trusts, universities and Non Profit organization. The key to finding scholarships is learning the art of Google Search. Studying abroad is an investment in your future. I believe the personal, academic and professional rewards will last a lifetime. With proper planning and preparation, the study abroad experience can truly be life changing be it summer, short term, professional or degree courses. But like any other type of investment, it requires planning, careful management, creativity, perseverance and commitment Students who have studied abroad consistently count their international experience as one of the best parts of their career and I am definite it will be yours too. Limaben Jamir 23, is a summer intern with YouthNet. She has recently completed her master’s from Royal Holloway, University of London concentrating on Social and Political Psychology. Hoping to be a post graduate student fellow in Social Policy and Government and ultimately a part of future policy making, particularly in the field of development. She takes time to intern with Youth Net and study data to understand the dynamics, challenges and opportunities in young people’s policies in Nagaland. She is also the co-chair of the General Assembly, Indian International Model UN and likes to participate in research, social affairs and Global Politics.
A new Expression: Blogging and the Nagas Top-5 Naga
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t was during the US-Iraqi War (19901991) that a new form of “diary-writing” began to slowly spread across the world. It was a new form of expression and writing that redefined personal journals and diary-keeping principals into an entirely whole new face and meaning – Blogging. Since the 1990s the new phenomenon began to gain recognition across the world so much than thousands of blogging platforms began cropping up led by Google’s own Blogger/ Blogspot. Today, the world has literally billions of blogs, each of which express an opinion, critique or just share information. From giant corporate and financial companies to the bored housewife, blogging is today a means of not just expression – it is an expression itself. Today, blogging has almost transitioned into a literary form and has created a quintessentially modern idiom that has enabled writers to express themselves and their thoughts in a way they have never understood before. Blogging among Nagas, the people of Nagaland, can be traced to early 2000s. Although the idea has yet to capture Nagas in a big way like Facebook (of course!), surprisingly there seems to be quite a number of Naga bloggers out there blogging to the world. The trend may not have caught on with the Nagas – who do not write much – for now like it is with people of other countries (from povertystricken African countries to the unbeatable western countries, blogging is an important activity). However, the trend is catching on. There are many blogs, created individually or as a team by people converging who have a concern or passion in fields they feel are important or inclined towards. There are blogs that discuss about the political, social and cultural issues of Nagaland, while some bloggers blog about fashion, local cuisines, literature, music etc. The global tilt rendered by the tremendous leaps and bounds that the internet has envisaged has made people aware, present and more socially in-tune with the rest of the world. Up till now, there have been only a few notable Naga bloggers who stand in line with the conscious theme of social upkeep. Based on some researches and questionnaires, a vast majority of Nagas still think that blogging is unimportant – that there are better things to do than just blogging! Some feel hesitant about drawing the curtains partially, to expose their private lives. Mirror Plus talked with Dr. Yan Murry, the CEO of Society for Education, Employment and Development (SEED) and the president of The Nagaland Bloggers Association (NBA). He is also an active blogger, passionate about Information Technology and the world wide web and how it is changing the world. For those who don’t know, he is also one of the founders of the once-great Naga website Kuknalim.com 1. When did the blogging trend start for the Nagas? Dr. Y. Murry: From what I can make out from the data of members registered at Naga Bloggers Association, Nagas may have started blogging as early as 2006 or even earlier. Free blogging platforms like Blogspot and Wordpress have enabled many Nagas to take up
blogs/bloggers
Al Ngullie (Journalist, writer/columnist) Niche: News Reports, Journalism, Writing and Music Lopeni Patton aka Lazy Manx Cat (Fashion blogger) Niche: Fashion trends, tips and products Naga Bloggers Association (a forum of Naga blog sites) Niche: website news, blogging tips and forum Tetseo Sisters (Music group) Niche: Music Naga Blog (A blog site of Facebook group called ‘The Naga Blog’) Niche: Issues, general opinions *According to Google PG rank and Keyword ranking
blogging. 2. How many Naga bloggers are there? Who are the top/highest-ranking bloggers, or top blog websites (what do they blog about, what are their rewards etc)? Dr. Y. Murry: It will be difficult for me to estimate the number of Naga bloggers. Close to 30 bloggers are registered at Naga Bloggers Association. I am sure the number will be much higher. Again, it is tough to rank bloggers or blogs. Some blogs may have good content yet the number of visitors to that blog may not be much. While a simple blog without much content can generate a lot of traffic if there are many attractive pictures. My personal favourites are Dr. Paul Pimomo, Dr. Sao Tunyi and Tetseo Sisters I founded Nagablog.com along with Dr. Paul Pimomo in 2008. Dr. Paul’s writings are based on research and careful analysis. He is currently professor of English and African studies at Central Washington University. Dr. Paul blogs on contemporary issues in Naga society. Dr. Sao Tunyi is an Epidemiologist based in Kohima. His blog ‘Thatched house’ is an interesting read. He shares about his travels, thoughts and perspectives on all things Naga. The popular Tetseo sisters are active bloggers as well. Its interesting to read about their travels and performances. You’ll find a lot of photography in their blog. I feel most Nagas do not blog for money as is the trend elsewhere. Here, it is more to do with ‘expressing onself ’.
Digital Empowerment Division of the Society for Education Empowerment and Development (SEED) is looking to address some of these problems and help develop the art of blogging among Nagas. What is your perspective as a blogger? Dr. Y. Murry: Blogging is a powerful tool for individuals to express their opinions. Political blogging was given a big boost by the (breaking-new and information) blog ‘The Huffington Post’ widely regarded as the world’s most popular blog. Founded by Arianna Huffington. The success of this blog inspired many to take up blogging world-wide. In politically volatile countries, citizens have used blogging as a powerful tool for expressing their views. Closer to home, in India you’ll find bloggers who have made a mark. Indian celebrities like Amitabh Bachchan have completed 5 years of blogging. Now, one would wonder why a super busy man like Bachchan saab would take up blogging. My personal favorite Indian blogger is Amit Agarwal, founder of technology blog www.labnol.org - a simple yet delightful blog which provides useful tech tips. An IIT pass-out, Amit, years back decided to stay at home and try a hand at blogging. Today, he can be considered one of India’s most successful bloggers. And why there are less bloggers among Nagas? The lack of internet penetration can be attributed to it. Although Nagas surf the net extensively on their mobile phones, that is just good enough for Facebooking. For proper blogging, you need a regular internet connection. 5. Any interesting anecdotes, incidents, anything that add spice and “emotions” to blog stories. Dr. Y. Murry: Before the last State general elections, I conducted a pre-poll survey in Nagablog.com to analyze the pre-poll sentiments of Nagas. There were some criticisms but in the absence of any pre-poll survey in Nagaland I thought it would be interesting. Some Results of the Survey: - Neiphiu Rio was voted the Most suitable CM (beating Tokheho Yepthomi) - People want Employment & Good Roads the most. - Majority of the participants predicted NPF will do well in Eastern Nagaland (and this will play a crucial role in Govt formation) Note: Naga Bloggers Association is a non-partisan platform for Naga bloggers to come together and showcase their works. It is an initiative of Digital Empowerment Division of the Society for Education, Empowerment & Development (SEED) NagaBlog.com
How do you feel about our Naga bloggers?? Why is it that Nagas have less bloggers? Dr. Y. Murry: I feel blogging among Nagas will pick up. Most Nagas prefer to spend time on Facebook rather than start a blog themselves. May be some Nagas do not have the technical know-how to start a blog. While it takes just a few minutes to start a blog in Blogspot, creating your own website requires technical assistance and some investment. Naga Bloggers Association which is an initiative of
Tutu Imchen, 21 years, is from Mokokchung currently studying in St. Edmund’s College in Meghalaya. She nurtures a passionate interest in writing and reading. She is also into sports such as badminton but writing has been “forever a joy for me,” she says.
Nutrition for a Healthy Coat and Skin in Dogs veterinarians occasionally see such problems. “With the ready availability of quality pet foods, it is very difficult for a pet to have a nutritional deficiency of any kind.” Reputable commercial dog foods typically contain enough nutrients, including essential fatty acids, to maintain with Dr Michael Imchen healthy skin and a shiny coat. In contrast, dogs on low-quality commercial dog foods or improperly balanced homemade diets -for instance, a dog that eats mostly chicken -- may not get enough nutrients to keep a healthy skin and coat. Low-fat diets are risky, too. “The obvious coat problems from deficiencies would be a dandruffy , dull coat from an omega-6 deficit if the pet is eating an extremely low-fat diet.” In fact, puppies that eat very low-fat diets develop coarse, dry hair and skin lesions that become prone to infection. But diet isn’t the only culprit B.V.Sc & A.H, M.Sc.A.P.M,C.USG & R. when it comes to irritated skin and Veterinary Surgeon dull coat. Dogs that scratch themAnimal Concern, Circular Road selves frequently or are bathed too often can lose oil from their skin. Though these dogs don’t have a true ogs are a pleasure to pet, dietary deficiency, supplements can especially when they’re often remedy the problem. Dogs blessed with healthy could be given more fats in their skin and lustrous fur. But diets. some dogs are plagued Omega-6 for Dog Coat Care with itchy, flaking skin and lacklustre “Most dog foods, fortunately, are coats. What can you do to restore very high in omega-6 [fatty acids. your dog’s shiny coat? Those can be helpful just to give a Essential Fatty Acids: Key to a shine to the coat, add some lustre Healthy Coat back, and help replace the oils in Healthy fats play an important the skin.” role in keeping your dog’s coat in Vegetable oils are also a source good condition. Fortunately, few of omega-6 fatty acids. Pet stores dogs develop dull coats because of sell omega-6 supplements, but nutritional deficiencies, although
ANIMAL CARE
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“honestly, sunflower oil or safflower oil works fine.” For a small dog, stir in one teaspoon of oil per meal, she says. For a large dog, give one tablespoon per meal. Just make sure that the oil is fresh, because oils that are kept too long can go rancid and become less effective. The same goes for dog food that contains essential fatty acids, which can oxidize when exposed to air. Omega-3 for Dog Coat Care Omega-3 fatty acids can also help dogs with skin disorders.Omega-3’s have other beneficial effects for skin problems. They have very good anti-inflammatory effects. Flaxseed oil and fish oil are good sources of omega-3 fatty acids. Supplements come in liquid or capsule form. But if dogs refuse to take capsules, snip top of the capsule and pour the oil onto food. Be careful not to give too many fatty acid supplements. Excessive amounts can be “too rich,” and dogs may have upset stomachs and vomiting. A dog’s skin and coat should improve about six weeks after starting omega-3 supplementation. Other Supplements for Healthy Skin and Coat Pet stores and pharmacies stock a variety of other supplements that claim to improve skin and coat health. In fact, you should be cautious against overdoing the supplements. Perhaps as a reflection of human interest in consuming vitamins,
“people want to add in a lot of other vitamins” for their pets, too. “Really, there’s not a lot of evidence that it does much to help just a dog who has more or less a normal coat.” But, if dogs have certain skin diseases, supplements can help. For example, zinc deficiency can cause crusting on the skin. Also, some dogs with seborrhoea, or scaly skin, may require extra vitamin A. But always seek veterinarian help before starting your dog on supplements. For instance, too much zinc or vitamin A can cause problems if given for long periods. (Dr Michael Imti Imchen can be contacted for pet and animal care related queries and concerns at mikeimchen@yahoo.co.in Mobile-09436072892)
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Mirror week-ent
Eastern Mirror | Dimapur Saturday | April 20 | 2013
Rediscovering Shilloi Lake – and
mosquitoes. No complaints!
Today in this fast-changing, modernized, urbanized and technological world, a person rarely gets to see and enjoy the beauty of nature. As he steps out of his doors every morning, all he sees are fast cars and tall buildings where even the beauty of sunrise and sunset has become a rare sight. But despite all these, Nagaland is one place where one can enjoy nature at its best. Chumbeni Ovung Discovering Nagaland (Facebook group)
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iscover Nagaland’ a group in Facebook where adventurous, fun and nature loving people come together to discover and explore various good places in their own state, Nagaland. The group organized its first ever such adventurous trip to Shilloi Lake in Phek district during October 11- 14, 2012. A team of ten members took the trip. The travel was a wonderful experience and an unforgettable trip for the members. The trip to Phek was a bitter-sweet experience for this author. She had to undergo both ‘never before in my life’ and many of ‘first time in my life’ experiences. Yet it was also very interesting and a great fun at the same time. It reminded her of many such field trips she undertook during college days. However, the college trips were different in that minds were always preoccupied with academic report and results (She never enjoyed any of the trips because of the tension of report writing!). But the Shilloi trip was different – it was tension-free and full of the ‘good times’. Country Roads The members of Discover Nagaland embarked on to Phek on October 12, where they started out in the back of a Tata mobile (first time in the author’s life!). It was quite a smooth ride for a few kilometers initially. Slowly the ‘highway’ showed its true colors later on – the road gave you a feeling that must be akin to being put inside an empty can and shaken upside down vigorously. Nature has bestowed upon Phek district with much beauty, yet man has not been kind enough to maintain and upkeep it. It was quite a bumpy ride. In certain pockets the team members had to get down and push the vehicle. To add salt to the injury, wayside twigs and
Wazheho Cement factory
Shilloi Lake facts Locals call it Latsam, the British called her Shiloh but now it is officially known as Shilloi. Shilloi Lake lies on the lower slopes of the hill ranges running along the Myanmar ridges. Located 275 km away from Kohima, one has to travel east through roads lined with oak tree dressed in fresh foliage. The serpentine road spiraling downwards guarded by Rocky Mountains presents a mysterious and majestic sight. Surrounded by tall, striking and attractive hills, Shilloi Lake spreads over 0.25 to 0.30 sq. km., in the shape of a footprint. Legend has it that the girl child became the Queen of the lake as was called Latsam to this day! The lake is easily reachable by jeep, truck, buses etc., via Meluri. It is spread over 0.25 to 0.30 sq km and the lake is in the form of a footprint. The average depth of the lake is 4 m. The lake is considered to be the home of spirits by the local people and there are many stories related to this lake. Thus local people do not use the water from this lake for irrigation or drinking purposes. overgrown grasses were allied with the road as they whipped us all the way as we shook to and fro. Nevertheless with ‘liberals’ in the team, you get to enjoy even such journeys. When you visit Shilloi Lake, don’t miss out the cement fac-
Nagaland’s Guinness World Record Certificates ready
tory in Wazeho, the only one of its kind in Nagaland. The factory is quite impressive. One can also see limestone deposits on the way – they actually look like snow-topped mountains from far. It is also said that there is a kind of
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o claim the Guinness certificate for the guitarists who participated in the largest guitar ensemble held at Agri Expo on the 12th of January 2013, the organizers, Sky Group has asked the participants to submit an e-mail of the following documents at No5 Akrole complex, Purana bazaar, East Dimapur. Purana bazaar (10am to 4pm) or e -mail us @ skyentertainment@skygroup. org.in. 1. Full Name
2. Registration Number 3. One colour passport photograph The participants are requested by the World Record officials to submit clear passport photos in order to validate and authenticate through face verification software. The last date of submission of the above mentioned documents is on 17th May 2013 for documents to be accepted without disappointment. For any queries please call 8730957422
Shilloi Lake in Phek
Aside from beauty there were the road s! The travellers seen here testing their strength against the terrible road to Shilloi
ir-roughing-it-out galand seen here with the Phek Na er cov Dis of ers mb Me visit Shilloi Lake in gear as they move out to
Supermodel Coco Rocha debunk glamorous world of modeling Supermodel Coco Rocha proclaimed: ‘Leave an agency like you’d leave a boyfriend. Get all of your stuff out before you leave - because you never want to see them again.’
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SKY Entertainment handing over a Guinness Certificate to the Chief Minister of Nagaland Neiphiu Rio Nagaland along with Khulozhulo Nienu, Minister for Roads and Bridges on April 19
rock a bit farther from which green marble can be obtained. Despite the hard and rough journey, you will never regret the toil once you reach the lake. All of our weariness vanished once we reached the beautiful lake. The beauty of the water body and the majestic hills surrounding was a joy to watch. The place was so enchanting that the team decided to sleep in tents rather than the cottages provided. It would have been a nice night sleeping with the croaking frogs and whistling crickets, if not for the mosquitoes! Everyone had to get back into the cottage rooms because of the little pests! Facilities With some inputs and help from the government, Shilloi Lake can be a place next to heaven. Repairing the roads, maintaining the cottages and equipping them better facilities are some suggestions Discover Nagaland make. Some upkeep of the area and its facilities would make the spot a better place for tourists. Preserving the rich flora and fauna of the area by various agencies can also be taken up. Brochures/ folders with necessary information regarding the lake and its origin, its meaning and significance can be made and given away to visitors. In that way, information can be disseminated and more people will come to know more about the spot. The lake has potentials and can become an important tourist attraction in Nagaland. Personally for the author, the trip to Shilloi was one of the best trips she undertook. With enthusiastic teammates, it made things even better. One wouldn’t mind taking more of such trips. All thanks to Mr. Merithung Odyuo, the mastermind behind Discover Nagaland. The group has plans of organizing many more such trips in the coming days. If you are not a member of the group, join now and be a part of the best team exploring and discovering the best of your very state that is Nagaland. You will never regret it. Assured.
he 24-year-old was giving a lesson on modeling at Columbia Law School or more specifically, the business of modeling, sharing her personal tips for a successful career. From how to deal with ‘creepy’ photographers, to saying no to nudity, the Canadian-born beauty debunked the industry’s glamorous facade to a room full of freshfaced models, revealing the tough hurdles that continue to plague even the world’s most well-known faces. According to the red haired advocate the biggest mistake a model can make is not negotiating the terms of the contract. Under U.S. law, models are considered independent contractors, which mean that many basic provisions of employment law minimum wage, mandatory breaks, worker’s compensation for injuries, and even protection from sexual harassment - do not apply. ‘It is really important to know everything about your contract,’ Ms Rocha implored. ‘I mean, how old were you when you signed? Were you legal to actually sign on your own behalf? Did you even have a lawyer sitting with you, actually
discussing what this is all about?’ Ms Rocha, one of the few models who has become known by just her first name, is famous for having one of ‘the thickest contracts of any model out there’ - so much so that Noami Campbell, her co-host on The Face, said to her; ‘How do you work?’ Ms Rocha will not do: cigarettes; nudity or semi-nudity; war, political or over-sexual themes; and lingerie, which mean no swimwear because that could make people think she’s willing to do lingerie; and on television - no cursing. She also refuses to work on public holidays. Most models have no such clauses written into their contract. And if they won’t get undressed for a photographer, refuse to wear fur if they are vegan, or say no to posing with a cigarette because they are adverse to lung cancer, they lose the job. Ms Rocha was pressured into doing a semi-nude shoot at age 14 (‘which is one too many for me,’ she says), before she laid out her strict parameters. Now she advocates for model’s rights, and hopes to liberate models many of whom wonder how Ms Rocha became so successful de-
spite turning down shoots she deemed too provocative - from this fear. ‘I don’t do anything. I wear black, with pink accents, that’s it,’ she joked. The Jehovah’s Witness, who describes her upbringing as ‘very strong,’ said she got to a point where she asked: ‘Do I even want to be in this industry? I grew up a certain way, I believe in those values. ‘Don’t get me wrong, I enjoy this industry,’ she added. ‘But not for what they wanted, and how they wanted to sell me.’ So she told her agent: ‘This is who I am. Can you work with this? If not, I’ll just go back and be an Irish dancing nerd.’ It turned out her agency was willing to work with her values, and now, Ms Rocha, who grew up south of Vancouver in the shoreline city of Richmond, British Columbia, goes to photo shoots and ‘eliminates all their [revealing] outfits,’ she admitted. Sara Ziff, a model and founder of the Model Alliance, chimed in: ‘You should know what you feel comfortable doing, and you should never be put on the spot to do something you don’t want to do.’
Mirror Plus, the Eastern Mirror weekend supplement Sub-Editors: Imti Longchar; Vishü Rita Krocha; Layout Designer: Viketu Atubu Liegise E-mail: easternmirrorplus@gmail.com Ph Nos: Kohima 0370-2291977 Dimapur 03862-246001