Phejin Konyak, a cultural documentarian and writer, hails from Shiyong village in Mon District, Nagaland. She is the great-granddaughter of Ahon, a famed tattooed headhunter and interpreter who assisted J.H. Hutton—one of the first British ethnographers in the Naga Hills—in his 1923 book Diaries of Two Tours in the Naga Hills. Inspired by her ancestry, Phejin has taken it upon herself to preserve and share the rich cultural legacy of the Konyak tribe, particularly its tattooing traditions.

Alongside photographer Peter Bos, Phejin traveled extensively across remote Konyak villages, documenting tattoo patterns once worn by headhunters. This effort culminated in her acclaimed book, The Last of the Tattooed Headhunters. Blending personal narrative with ethnographic research, the book traces Phejin’s journey as she rediscovers her roots and captures a vanishing tradition.

The Konyaks viewed tattoos not merely as ornamentation, but as powerful markers of identity, achievement, and transition. The body was treated as a living canvas—each tattoo representing rites of passage, life cycles, and social status. Through oral histories, folk songs, sayings, and poems, Phejin's work weaves a vibrant tapestry of cultural expression that once defined the community.

Her book is the most comprehensive record to date of Konyak tattooing. It includes detailed descriptions of the meanings behind different tattoo patterns, the artists who created them, techniques used, and the societal roles these tattoos played. Illustrated with photographs and drawings, the work preserves the memory of a tradition that is rapidly fading with the passing of the last generation of tattooed elders.

In her roles as farmer, host, and researcher, Phejin Konyak stands as a custodian of her community’s heritage—ensuring that the stories inked into skin are not forgotten. 

Neihunuo Sorhie, hailed as Nagaland’s master weaver, has dedicated her life to preserving and promoting the rich textile traditions of the Naga people. Born in 1963 in Kohima, she began weaving at the age of four under her mother’s guidance and was crafting garments by six. Though she had to leave school early, her deep-rooted passion for weaving became the foundation of a lifelong journey of cultural preservation and community empowerment.

Neihunuo’s expertise spans various traditional crafts, including loin loom weaving, cross-stitch, knitting, and beadwork—each reflecting the intricate artistry of Naga heritage. Her skill and dedication earned her the Padma Shri in 2023, one of India’s highest civilian awards, in recognition of her extraordinary contributions to safeguarding intangible cultural heritage.

Beyond her personal mastery, Neihunuo has trained over 300 individuals—ranging from housewives and widows to school dropouts and children—offering them not only craft skills but also hope, income, and a sense of purpose. Her inclusive approach has made a meaningful impact on community livelihoods and the transmission of traditional knowledge.

For over two decades, Neihunuo has run her handicrafts enterprise, M/S Ciepfhe Handloom & Handicraft, in Kohima. The store showcases her creations and serves as a hub for promoting indigenous craftsmanship. She has represented Nagaland in numerous exhibitions across India and abroad, spreading awareness and appreciation for Naga handlooms and artistry.

Through her tireless work, Neihunuo Sorhie has become more than an artisan—she is a cultural ambassador, a mentor, and a role model. Her story is one of resilience, tradition, and inspiration, and her legacy continues to inspire future generations to cherish and uphold their cultural root

Hailing from the serene village of Chosuba in Nagaland’s Phek District, Veswuzo Phesao has emerged as a passionate custodian of Chakhesang culture. Born into a family that initially followed traditional ancestral beliefs before converting to Christianity, Veswuzo grew up in an environment that deeply respected indigenous values and customs. His father, a staunch cultural guardian, upheld traditions through symbolic practices like hosting community feasts—markers of social status, generosity, and cultural pride.

Veswuzo was encouraged from a young age to embrace folk songs and dances, learning directly from village elders. Even while helping with chores or socializing, he was reminded to sing and dance, weaving culture into daily life. After completing his schooling, he pursued higher studies in art at the prestigious J.J. Institute of Applied Arts in Bombay. Despite being far from home, he stayed connected to his roots, performing Chakhesang folk music at college events and among peers.

In 1989, he joined the North East Zone Cultural Centre (NEZCC), where he found a platform to actively promote and preserve his community’s traditions. To nurture young talent, he later established a cultural club in Naga United Village, mentoring youth in Chakhesang songs, dances, and customs. Under his leadership, the group performed across India, gaining recognition and encouraging pride in cultural identity.

Veswuzo’s journey—from a village youth to a national cultural ambassador—is a testament to his dedication and belief in the power of heritage. He credits his achievements to the grace of God and remains committed to keeping Chakhesang traditions alive for future generations. Through his efforts, Veswuzo has become more than a promoter—he is a living bridge between past and present, memory and identity.

Born in 1956, Hatjaphal (Phalsi) is a key figure in preserving and promoting Kuki culture and heritage. After studying at Dimapur Art College, she embarked on a career in education, teaching at Molvom and later retiring from Athibung Government Middle School. Throughout her teaching career, she was committed to shaping young minds while also preserving her cultural roots.

Upon retiring, Hatjaphal turned to writing, focusing on Kuki history, traditions, and folklore. Her books, including Goulu, Bu Ninu, and Bu Khatna, explore the rich customs of the Kuki tribe, shedding light on their dances, lores, and cultural expressions. These works serve as vital documents for understanding the symbolism and significance of Kuki traditions, offering insights into their vibrant cultural heritage.

Beyond her literary contributions, Hatjaphal plays a central role in the community's cultural life. She teaches and performs traditional folk dances and songs, passing on her knowledge to younger generations. Her compositions of lores—integral to the Kuki oral storytelling tradition—continue to enrich the cultural landscape.

Hatjaphal’s commitment to preserving Kuki culture extends beyond her writing and teaching. She actively participates in major cultural events, ensuring the continuation of Kuki traditions in a modern world. Her dedication has made her an invaluable figure in her community, contributing to the cultural renaissance of the Kuki tribe. Through her efforts, Hatjaphal not only preserves the past but also shapes the future of Kuki heritage for generations to come.

Ajungla Jamir, the visionary founder of Nagabowl Express in Dimapur and co-founder of Nagabowl Bakery and Nagabowl Pantry, is a pioneering figure in promoting Naga cuisine. Born as the youngest of seven siblings in the scenic village of Mupungchuket in Mokokchung district, her rise from humble beginnings to becoming a celebrated culinary entrepreneur is truly inspiring.

Ajungla’s journey began after completing her Class 12 education in Mokokchung. Her passion for the culinary arts led her to pursue hotel management at IHM Guwahati. Her dedication quickly earned her a spot at prestigious establishments, including the Oberoi Group, where she worked in Detroit and Gurgaon. She further refined her skills in Mumbai at the Maratha Sheraton and gained international experience while working aboard MSC Cruise Line. This global exposure broadened her culinary horizons and deepened her expertise in hospitality.

However, despite her success abroad, Ajungla felt a strong pull to her roots. Returning to Dimapur, she joined a local university as a faculty member, where she organized an annual cooking competition dedicated to Naga cuisine. This event became a platform to showcase the region’s diverse culinary traditions and inspired her to further explore the potential of Naga food.

Motivated by her love for her heritage, Ajungla founded Nagabowl Express, a restaurant that celebrates the rich culinary culture of Nagaland. Through her ventures, including Nagabowl Bakery and Nagabowl Pantry, she continues to introduce traditional Naga dishes to a wider audience, blending old recipes with modern techniques. Ajungla’s work goes beyond food; it’s about preserving culture, sharing stories, and connecting people through the joy of Naga cuisine. Her entrepreneurial journey is a testament to resilience, passion, and cultural pride.