36th Freshers’ Meet of Kuki Students’ Organisation Delhi & NCR Celebrated with Grandeur and Cultural Fervour

The Kuki Students’ Organisation Delhi & NCR (KSO) hosted its much-anticipated 36th Freshers’ Meet at the prestigious Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan Auditorium, New Delhi on September 20, bringing together students, leaders, and well-wishers in a grand celebration of unity, learning, and cultural identity. The annual event, a cherished tradition of the Organisation, warmly welcomed the newest members of the Kuki student community in the capital while also honouring contributions of senior figures who have served the society with distinction.

The evening opened with a deeply reverent prayer led by Pastor Lalminlian Samte of Zo Christian Bible Church, New Delhi, invoking blessings on the gathering. Paojakhup Guite, in his welcome address, extended heartfelt greetings to the audience, setting a cordial and celebratory tone. A blessings prayer for the freshers was then offered by Reverend Tongminthang Haokip, Pastor of Kuki Worship Services, Delhi, which reminded the young students of their responsibility as ambassadors of their community in academic and professional spaces.

The programme was graced by distinguished guests. Gracing the occasion as Chief Guest was Dr. T. Philip Thanglenmang Zou, IAS (Retd.), Chairman of Zomi Council, Delhi & NCR. The programme was led under the functional presidency of Tongminthang Misao (DANICS), Deputy Chief Electoral Officer, Delhi, and Secretary of Kuki Inpi (Apex). The gathering was further honoured by the presence of Luckybhau Jadhav, National Youth President of ABVP, as Guest of Honour.

One of the highlights of the evening was the conferring of the prestigious Late Paojasei Singsit Award, the highest civilian recognition instituted by KSO Delhi & NCR in honour of its founding father. This year, the award was bestowed upon Letkhotinthang Haokip, former Director, Ministry of Cooperation (Retd.), former President of Kuki Inpi, and former advisor to KSO Delhi & NCR. His lifelong commitment and contributions to society and the community were celebrated with resounding applause, inspiring both the young and old alike.

The second session unfolded into a colourful and electrifying cultural showcase, reflecting the artistic brilliance of Kuki youth. Enthusiastic performances by S. Paominthang Neihsiel, Sasang Vaiphei, Angelina Simte, Mixed Swings (Dance Crew), Boison Kipgen, Minlun Vaiphei, Vawnchawi Vaiphei, Jimmy Thang Zou (Traffic Jam Band), KWSD Sunday School Band, Steven Emthang, and a special dance presentation by Jesus & Mary College (Dance–Oldies) captivated the audience and filled the auditorium with energy. Each performance carried the spirit of youthful passion and cultural pride, reminding everyone of the vibrant legacy of Kuki heritage.

The event also witnessed the eagerly awaited crowning of Mr. and Miss Freshers 2025, with Miss Melody Tinngaineng and Mr. Nehjagin Chongloi being honoured with the titles amidst cheers and celebration. Their crowning symbolised not only youthful charm but also the bright promise of the next generation of leaders and achievers.

Ensuring the seamless flow of the evening were the talented hosts: the first session anchored by P. Kuki and Lydia Haokip, and the second session by Rufina Chindeineng Zou and Paul Haokip, whose warmth, humour, and graceful compering kept the gathering engaged.

As the curtains drew to a close, Evan. Henlal Lhouvum, Evangelist of KWSD, offered the closing prayer, bringing the evening to a solemn and hopeful end. His words served as a reminder of faith and perseverance, and of the community’s shared aspirations for its students.

The 36th Freshers’ Meet of KSO Delhi & NCR was more than just an event; it was a celebration of identity, resilience, and collective pride. By honouring senior leaders, embracing cultural richness, and welcoming new students with open arms, the programme reaffirmed the Organisation’s role as a beacon of support, guidance, and inspiration for the Kuki community in the national capital.