Kohima, June 21 : Nagaland witnesses a cultural extravaganza showcasing the rich heritage of the region.

The 23rd National Convention, with the theme 'A celebration of our composite culture', is currently on at the Indira Gandhi Stadium in Kohima.

Some of the finest traditions and culture of the Northeast and the rest of India are being displayed at this six-day event (June 16-21).

The cultural feast is organized by the Society for Promotion of Indian Classical Music and Culture among the Youth (SPIC MACAY) in collaboration with Nagaland University and the government of Nagaland.

Union Panchayati Raj Minister Mani Shankar Aiyar was the chief guest on the occasion.

The officials from the state government felt that such cultural programmes will promote the rich cultural heritage of the region.

“The show was so good, there was homogeneity of all the items presented there and the rhythm and life was presented. It has evoked a very positive response in the audience. Everybody was so thrilled; the audiences were literally clapping with the artists and were enjoying every bit of it. Everybody in the audience had enjoyed the show,” said DR. S. C. Deorani, Principal Secretary to the Governor of Nagaland.

The event saw the dance lovers from different parts of the country thronging the venue.

“I was just going to tell you that as a child I wanted to learn Manipuri dance but there were not many gurus in Uttarakhand so I picked up Bharatnatyam. I'm really in love with Manipuri dance,” said Tirthi.

The six-day event featured some of the well-known artists from different fields like painting, music, puppetry, photography and dance from across the country. (ANI)