Project Empathy and the Assam Rifles jointly organized an event on Monday at Kenguruse Hall, HQ IGAR (N), with the aim of preserving indigenous knowledge, giving voice to under-represented communities, and fostering a personal understanding of history. In a press release, HQ IGAR (N) stated that the Assam Rifles-hosted event began with an address by Project Empathy founder Vibha Lakhera, who highlighted the initiative’s goal of bridging generational divides through storytelling and fostering a deeper understanding of Naga history. speaker Rita Korcha elaborated on empathy’s role in oral history, emphasizing how personal narratives vitalize cultural preservation.
The event included a segment where 40 dignitaries and 160 students from three colleges shared their experiences recording and curating oral histories. Kohima-based psychological researcher Kevi further explained how storytelling promotes emotional and cultural healing. Attendees also viewed an abridged screening of the Project Empathy film, preserving voices and stories potentially lost to time. A felicitation ceremony recognized the students of Don Bosco College, Modern College, and Oriental College.
Vibha Lakhera's Speech:
During her speech, Vibha Lakhera, the founder and CEO of Project Empathy, recounted her initial visit to Nagaland in 2022 as the inspiration for the initiative. As she recalled her journey from Dimapur to Kohima, she described how the warmth of the people, the beauty of the landscape, and the distinctive cultural spirit sparked the idea of documenting stories of empathy.
“I had no idea what to expect from Kohima or its people,” she stated, adding, “However, the smiles I received were not mere expressions of politeness but rather invitations to connect, understand, and feel a sense of belonging.” She explained that this experience became the fundamental reason for the project’s inception: Naga Oral History – Stories of Empathy.
Lakhera shared her observations of visiting the local market, noticing flowerpots adorning every home regardless of economic status, and being deeply touched by the kindness of teachers and elders. Wondering about the source of this “extraordinary warmth and softness,” she concluded that it stemmed from a deeply rooted culture of empathy.
According to her, the project involved collaboration with students from Don Bosco College Kohima, Modern College, and Oriental College, who connect with elders from various tribes to record their personal and communal histories. “The students have been the true driving force behind this project,” she acknowledged, expressing her gratitude to the coordinators and participants Lakhera dedicated the project to the people of Nagaland in recognition of their enduring spirit, courage in the face of adversity, and their belief in forgiveness and reconciliation.
Major General Manish Kumar’s Speech:
In his address, Major General Manish Kumar, Inspector General (IG) Assam Rifles (North), commended the ethos of Project Empathy and those who have embodied the meaning of ‘empathy’, congratulating the team for their efforts in preserving Naga oral history.
He asserted that oral history and empathy are complementary, emphasizing that without empathy, the true essence of history would be lost. He introduced an acronym for EMPATHY – Empowering, Mindfulness, Perspective, Acceptance, Trust, Humility, and Yearning – and highlighted that these values reflect the principles of soldiering.
Vishu Rita Krocha’s Keynote Address:
In her keynote address, renowned poet, journalist, and publisher Vishu Rita Krocha underscored the transformative power of oral storytelling in fostering empathy, preserving culture, and strengthening community bonds. Reflecting on her own life, Krocha shared, “Having been exposed to oral stories for most of my life, I can confidently affirm that it cultivates empathy in a profound manner.”
She explained that the spoken lived experience is a vital aspect of education, as deeper understanding arises from engaging with first-person narratives. She reminisced about her childhood, recalling moments spent by the fireside as her grandparents’ shared stories from their lives. “Their act of verbally sharing memories,” she noted, “served as a way of participating in a living record of lessons and experiences that have helped not just me but many others connect with their own lives.”
She added that this simultaneously taught them about past events and reminded them that progress relies on shared understanding. Krocha emphasized that even in today’s technologically advanced world, oral storytelling remains a potent tool for maintaining cultural identity, promoting empathy, and reinforcing family connections.
She stressed that oral histories provide a voice to individuals whose life stories might not have been documented in writing. Regarding Nagaland’s diverse culture, Krocha pointed out that oral storytelling also plays a crucial role in safeguarding indigenous languages and ensuring cultural continuity.
“The stories of each of our families hold significance,” she stated, “because they carry wisdom, comfort, and inspiration for young people to comprehend their origins. “Krocha praised Lakhera for initiating a movement dedicated to documenting oral stories and fostering compassion through narrative.
Other Attendees and Events:
Kevichubei Rutsa, who was involved with the project, offered his reflections on the initiative, while students from Don Bosco College Kohima, Oriental College Kohima, and Modern College Piphema shared their experiences. Padma Shri Kilamsungla was among the distinguished guests who attended the event. During the occasion, the official website of Project Empathy was launched, and the students who participated in the project were recognized and honored.