Seyievinuo Chuzho began her musical journey at the tender age of six in the early 2000s, inspired by the heritage and folklore of her community in Nagaland. As a celebrated artist with a PhD in history and archaeology, she crafts compositions that intertwine her cultural roots with modern musical styles.
Over the last two decades, she has become an integral part of the Northeastern state’s cultural scene, powered by her initiatives — Deliverance Ministry Nagaland (established in 2015) and SeYie Intrepid, a collective formed in 2022 to celebrate traditional folk music, storytelling, and contemporary performances within the Tenyimia Naga society. In addition to this, she is the brand ambassador for the South Korean skincare brand Cosmerit, besides being a beauty influencer for brands like Atomy, Dolfeia, Carenclass, Toptime Agefyte, Skin Dulgence and more.
She was part of the recently-concluded 25th edition of the Hornbill Festival, where she performed with Welsh folk artist Mari Mathias, and guitar virtuoso Imnainla Jamir.
Here are edited excerpts of her conversation with CNBC-TV18: Tell us a little bit about your musical journey — how did it begin? What are your biggest influences? What about your favourite artists, genres and albums? What are you currently working on?
Chuzho: My musical journey began at a young age when I was just six years old. Lately, I have been deeply influenced by the heritage and folklore of my community, which laid the foundation for my passion for music. Currently, I am working on creating new compositions that draw from my cultural roots while exploring Nature sounds and modern musical styles. Some of my favourite genres include folk, R&B pop, and world music, and I am always on the lookout for albums that push the boundaries of traditional music in innovative ways.
The Hornbill Festival, which turned 25 this year, is a confluence of cultures for artists from different spheres. How critical is such an event in the backdrop of art and culture? What role does it play in society and the art-culture spectrum of a country as diverse as India?
Chuzho: The Hornbill Festival turning 25 this year is a significant milestone highlighting the importance of cultural events in promoting art and unity. Such events serve as platforms for artists from diverse backgrounds to come together and showcase talents, fostering cross-cultural exchange and understanding. In a country as diverse as India and (a state like) Nagaland, where art and culture play a vital role in maintaining social cohesion and heritage preservation, events like the Hornbill serve as bridges that connect different communities and promote a sense of national unity amid the myriad cultures and traditions.
How has your experience at Hornbill been? When was the first time you have played? How have things evolved over the years?
Chuzho: My experience at the Hornbill Festival has been nothing short of exhilarating. I first sang at the festival many years ago in 2009 — and have witnessed its growth and evolution over time. The festival has become a melting pot of art, music, dance, and culinary delights, attracting people from all over the world to experience the vibrant culture of Nagaland. The energy and enthusiasm of the audience at the festival have been truly inspiring, making the entire festival a memorable and magical experience.
Seyievinuo Chuzho with Welsh artist Mari Mathias at Hornbill Festival 2024
(Source: FB)
Nagaland has a rich history of art and culture and Hornbill does a great job of bringing people from other parts of the world together. What else can be done, to ensure that the unique richness of Nagaland reaches more places?
Chuzo: While the Hornbill Festival has been instrumental in showcasing the unique richness of Nagaland to a global audience, there are still many potential opportunities to promote Naga art and culture beyond the festival.
One way to achieve this is through cultural exchange programmes, where Naga artists can collaborate with international artists and showcase their talents on global platforms. Additionally, promoting Naga art through digital platforms, cultural exchange programmes, and international tours can help bring the unique heritage of Nagaland to more places around the world which Task Force for Music and Arts (TaFMAfma) is already focused on doing so wonderfully, ensuring that its rich history continues to be celebrated and appreciated on worldwide spheres.
India has recently seen a flurry of foreign artists who are playing sold-out shows across cities. What does this mean for local artists? The scene is opening up, with more and more people now coming out of their homes to catch musicians live. How do local artists capitalise on this to be more visible and audible to the bigger masses?
Chuzo: So many foreign artists playing sold-out shows in India signifies a growing interest in live music and cultural exchange. For local artists, this presents a valuable opportunity to capitalise on the increased visibility and audience engagement. As part of the Wales in India 2024 initiative, the British Council, along with the Government of Wales, is bringing talented artists from Wales to perform at this year’s Hornbill Festival.
By leveraging social media, live streaming, and collaborations with international artists, local musicians can expand their reach and connect with a wider audience. Engaging with diverse audiences through interactive performances, workshops, and collaborations can help local artists carve out a niche in the competitive music scene, attracting more listeners and establishing a strong presence in the industry.
What are the things you’re looking forward to in 2025? Anything you’d like to share about your music, albums, collaborations or shows that you have lined up?
Chuzo: Looking ahead to 2025, I am excited about my upcoming projects and collaborations. I am working on new music that explores the intersection of traditional Naga sounds with contemporary influences, aiming to create a unique and immersive musical experience.
I am also looking forward to participating in international music festivals and cultural exchanges that will allow me to showcase Naga music on a global platform. Through my music and performances, I hope to continue bridging cultural divides and promoting the rich heritage of Nagaland to audiences around the world.
