Kohima: The first edition of the Green Room Project, a collaborative initiative designed to support emerging musicians and strengthen Nagaland’s music ecosystem, was held on Sunday at the Kohima Ridge Eco Park.
The event, managed by 13 Hour, brought together upcoming independent bands and seasoned performers on a common platform aimed at fostering mentorship, artistic collaboration and community engagement through live music.
According to organisers, the initiative was conceived as a response to the growing need for stronger support systems within the local music scene, particularly for young artists attempting to sustain their creative journeys beyond occasional performances and online exposure.
Speaking to journalists, Noune Khamo, an organiser and emcee for the night, said the Green Room Project was not driven by a single individual, but rather by a collective of artists who recognised gaps within Nagaland’s artistic landscape and decided to work together towards addressing them.
Khamo explained that the initiative aimed to create a safe and collaborative space where emerging musicians, whether solo performers or bands, could connect with more experienced artists and grow through mentorship, shared experiences and community support.
He said many promising artists often faded from public attention after performing a few shows, despite the visibility offered by social media platforms. According to him, the Green Room Project hoped to create stronger artistic continuity by encouraging collaboration and sustained engagement within the music community.
Khamo further stated that the initiative was rooted in authenticity and driven by a collective belief in the importance of building a healthier and more connected music culture in Nagaland. He added that beyond financial resources, organising an event of such scale required “an army and a whole village” of people who shared the same vision.
He also indicated that the organisers hoped to make the event an annual feature, although discussions regarding future editions were still ongoing. Audiences were encouraged to follow the project’s social media platforms for updates and announcements.
The inaugural edition featured performances by Flying Arcades, Pink Eye and veteran Christian rock outfit Divine Connection, which headlined the programme.
Flying Arcades, a rock band from Kohima, made their debut appearance at the event. Speaking after their debut performance, Flying Arcades described the experience as “surreal” and emotionally overwhelming.
Band member Vetho said performing in front of a live audience for the first time felt “like a dream”, adding that the energy from the crowd made the night especially memorable.
Their setlist included four original tracks and three cover songs, carefully selected to encourage audience participation and create an energetic atmosphere. Vetho explained that the group felt most comfortable performing songs that allowed them to engage directly with listeners and create a shared live experience.
Reflecting on the importance of platforms such as the Green Room Project, the band said opportunities for emerging musicians remained crucial, especially for young artists searching for exposure and support within the music scene.
The members acknowledged that many talented musicians deserved similar opportunities and expressed gratitude to the organisers and fellow artists who helped guide them through their debut performance.
The band also credited Divine Connection for encouraging and supporting them throughout the process. According to Vetho, the senior musicians helped the group adjust to an unfamiliar environment and provided guidance that made them feel more confident on stage.
Calling the experience a significant learning moment, he said community-driven initiatives such as the Green Room Project were important for nurturing local talent and encouraging audiences to actively support independent live music events.
Vetho further described Flying Arcades as a band focused less on technical perfection and more on creating an engaging and enjoyable experience for audiences.
Pink Eye, a six-member pop-rock band formed in early 2023, performed a lively set. Drawing inspiration from bands such as Paramore and IV of Spades, the group has built a reputation for emotionally driven songwriting and energetic live performances.
The band’s layered sound is shaped by a non-traditional arrangement featuring dual guitars, keyboards and a full rhythm section, while frontman Guraans Thapa’s vocal delivery has become a defining feature of the group’s performances.
Speaking after their performance Thapa said they were happy to be part of the event and described the performance as one of the highlights of their journey so far. According to her, the group has already performed at several shows since its formation and viewed the Green Room Project as a valuable platform for emerging artists.
Reflecting on their performance in Kohima, she said the atmosphere at the venue was energetic and welcoming. She added that the cooler weather and enthusiastic audience contributed to what they described as a “really good vibe” during the show.
Pink Eye performed an eight-song set during the event, with the band expressing satisfaction over the audience response and participation throughout the performance.
As one of the youngest acts featured at the concert, the band also encouraged aspiring musicians to pursue music without hesitation. Thapa said starting a band was not only creatively fulfilling but also helped build strong friendships and shared experiences.
She also highlighted the positive dynamic within the group, saying that despite being the only woman in the band, she had enjoyed the experience of performing and growing alongside the other members.
Encouraging young people to take creative risks, the band said anyone interested in music should “just start now”, adding that music had brought them both joy and meaningful connections.
Pink Eye also hinted at an upcoming major project currently in development, although details have yet to be officially confirmed. The band further revealed that listeners could expect their debut EP to be released around June.
Headlining the event was Divine Connection, widely regarded as one of Nagaland’s most recognised contemporary Christian rock bands. Formed on 30 September 2004 in Kohima, the band is known for blending folk, blues, funk, jazz, rock, Hindi music and contemporary gospel influences into an experimental sound.
The band has consistently promoted themes centred on positive living and youth empowerment, advocating a lifestyle free from drugs, alcohol, violence and immorality. Members of the group have previously stated that their greatest achievement lies in “winning the hearts of people” through music.
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Over the years, Divine Connection has performed extensively across India and abroad, sharing stages with international acts including Dub L.F.O and Too Late Lucy, as well as Indian rock veterans Parikrama.
The band released its self-titled EP and full-length album El-Roi in 2008, both of which received praise from fans and music audiences. Members of the group have also earned recognition individually for their musicianship and contributions to the wider music community in Nagaland and beyond.
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