We saw a YouTube ad with Nagaland’s Tetseo sisters singing songs in their native tongue. Times of India spoke to the Tetseo sisters — Mercy, Kuvely, Azi, and Lulu — who launched the YouTube channel to keep the language alive on World Music Day.

Their channel, which is dedicated solely to Chokri music, has attracted audiences all throughout India.

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What inspired you to create a YouTube channel?

For starters, there was no information regarding Nagaland, the Chakhesang Nagas, or any of the tribes. We also thought it was a fantastic way to share our culture and region with the rest of the globe through our music and the folksongs that we adore. And it was the ideal approach to teach our own Naga people to Chakhesang culture, language, music, and everything else that is sadly fading away – while still preserving it.

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We are delighted that our channel has been used as a resource and reference point for numerous exhibitions, presentations, and displays about Nagaland and its rich culture, as well as a means/tool to empower indigenous tribals and women.

Why did you choose YouTube as a platform to preserve the Chokri language?

We launched our YouTube channel before social media became the craze it is now, and YouTube was the most convenient way to upload content at the time. In the grand scheme of things, it was an ideal way to distribute films of performances and music as a sample for event organisers; especially, we wanted to present colourful visuals of our culture—the music, the language, the costumes, and glimpses of our land—for anyone to see. YouTube is still one of the most powerful platforms for content sharing, allowing audiences and creators from all over the world to share their work. As a result, it was a no-brainer, and we’re delighted we got started early.

Also read: World Music Day: History and significance

What were the obstacles you had to overcome on your YouTube journey?

The difficulties we encountered largely stemmed from the process of developing material that best represented and highlighted what we intended to highlight. Due to a lack of access to videographers, budgets, and other factors, we took a DIY approach and will continue to do so. We are extremely fortunate to be able to collaborate with such talented individuals who have assisted us in translating our ideas into content that our viewers can enjoy.

What do you believe is the single factor that contributed to the success of your channel?

Our one-of-a-kind content and signature presentations, without a doubt. The music, colours, and pictures are instantly identifiable.

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Is there anything you’d like to say to your fellow YouTubers?

Continue to create in order to share love and optimism, as well as to initiate conversations that will enhance humanity and bring us all together.