Kohima, January 25: Renowned veteran singer from Nagaland Methaneilie Jutakhrie, popularly known as the “Kishore Kumar of the Northeast,” was conferred the O.N.E. (Our North East) India Award 2026 at a grand ceremony held at the Kohima Village Council Hall on Friday evening.
The event was graced by Nagaland Minister for Tourism and Higher Education Temjen Imna Along as the chief guest, while Advisor for School Education and SCERT Kekhriehulie Yhome attended as the guest of honour. Sunil Deodhar, founder of My Home India and conceptualiser of the award, was also present at the ceremony.
Addressing the gathering, Temjen Imna Along highlighted the growing recognition of the Northeast in the national narrative and praised the role of artists like Jutakhrie in representing the region on a wider platform. He noted that the presence of dignitaries and guests from cities such as Delhi and Mumbai to honour achievers in Kohima reflected the increasing visibility and importance of the Northeast. He stressed the need to maintain a positive outlook on national issues and strengthen the region’s collective identity within India.
Dr. Kekhriehulie Yhome, in his address, spoke on the transformative power of culture, music, and education. He said recognising artists like Jutakhrie reinforces the idea that creative expression can nurture unity, responsible citizenship, and strong social values, particularly among the youth. He emphasised the role of music and culture in fostering social harmony and collective responsibility.
Sunil Deodhar elaborated on the vision of My Home India and its commitment to promoting national integration, especially in the Northeast. He acknowledged the efforts of the central government under Prime Minister Narendra Modi in bringing the region to the national stage through development, visibility, and governance. Deodhar said artists like Methaneilie Jutakhrie play a vital role in strengthening cultural and emotional integration by using music to inspire social change, civic awareness, and national pride.
Expressing gratitude for the honour, Methaneilie Jutakhrie dedicated the award to the people of Nagaland and the Northeast. He reaffirmed his lifelong commitment to using music as a form of service to promote positive values, social responsibility, and unity across communities.
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The ceremony was attended by the Kohima Village Council chairman and several community leaders, who acknowledged Jutakhrie’s journey and his lasting contributions to society. Performances and tributes celebrating his music and its social impact were also part of the programme.
The O.N.E. India Award, presented by My Home India, recognises individuals who have made outstanding contributions towards national unity and social transformation. Jutakhrie was honoured for his lifelong dedication to society through music, with songs that speak strongly against corruption, social evils, and substance abuse, while promoting Bharatiyata, national pride, and positive social change—cementing his status as a cultural icon of the Northeast.
