The Nagas

Hill Peoples of Northeast India

Project Introduction The Naga Database

sound recording - "Inde-Nagaland : Chant des tribus Sema et Zeliang"

sound:

V6850.mp3

caption:

Sema men's song, "Otsaluni, Ogholuni"

medium:

sound

ethnicgroup:

Sema

production:

date:

1985

acquirer:

person:

Maison du Culture du Monde, Paris

text:

"Otsaluni, Ogholuni" ("We will obey you whatever you say") is traditionally dedicated to the praise of a notable. In this case, it is addressed to Mr Kiyazhe Sema, Nagaland Minister of Culture, who accompanied the group to Paris, and to his wife.
"Above the earth and under the skies
Who is the greatest and most powerful man [sung twice] ?
Mr. Kiyazhe Sema is the greatest and most honourable
We obey all your orders and whatever you tell us.
Above the earth and under the sky,
Who is the greatest and most powerful woman ?
Mrs Kakheli Sema is that woman....(etc...)