Atono Tsükrü
Kohima, Sept 19 (EMN): Catching up with the rest of the world, the social networking sites have taken a strong a foothold even among the Naga youths and in an way have replaced the good old culture of the Naga morung, at least in a positive way.
The morung system was the only form of institution for young boys and girls to interact and dialogue with peer groups; learn about one’s culture and traditions; develop skills of farming, weaving and warfare; and almost all practices related to the village life.
Unfortunately, with the passage of times the culture of morung is slowly losing its importance and many tribes have abandoned it although some may be trying to revive it.
At present it cannot be denied or ignored on how the emergence of social media has become an important part of every individual for communication, reconnecting with old friends, making new friends, do business, share ideas and many more.
Although with its downfalls, there is no doubt that social media has revolutionised the thoughts of the people and somehow age old Naga tradition of working for the common good that seemed lost once have made a reappearance with the aid of social media.
Over the years it has been observed that the active participation by Naga youths in voluntary charitable works have been made possible through social networking sites like Facebook and Whatsapp groups.
In the back drop of the ever increasing problems and conflicts affecting human lives, it has been observed that our Naga youths have developed a compassionate and selfless sense of service towards fellow beings.
Social networking sites especially Facebook and Whatsapp have opened up ways and made it even more possible in building contacts and engaging people for such noble causes. Through the help, support and contributions of generous users, many groups in the social networking mediums have undertaken commendable voluntary works by reaching to the unreached, like paying schools fees of children belonging to poor economic background, cleanliness drives, blood donation and relief works to those affected by natural calamities. This list can go on.
Kevitho Kera who was part of ‘The Naga Blog Mon fire relief team’, ‘The Team Clean Dimapur’ and ‘Naga Discussion Forum famine relief trip to Indo-Myanmar border’ was elated that the response of the young people to charity works has been overwhelming.
Whenever a simple call is given in Whatsapp or Facebook, Kera said he is always amazed at how young people especially students are ready to help and sacrifice willing to donate physically and financially.
He commented that Facebook has given young people ‘a voice that was needed; it is like giving us a megaphone so that the deaf corrupt people are jolted from their seat.’
Khrolo Kapfo from The Nagas Facebook group felt that youths are slowly becoming aware of the real purpose of using social networking sites where many things can be learned through social media. He noted that there was a time when people upload their pictures just to get some attention.
He also opined that Naga youths have been very generous for any charitable works that have been undertaken by The Nagas. Some the works taken up includes clearing of the dumping site at Chathe River bank Diphupar, social work at Naga Cemetery and Naga Hospital Kohima etc.
Kapfo said he is overwhelmed by the response of the people because of The Nagas have been able to successfully carry out its charitable works.
Fashion and wedding photographer and proprietor of Ete Coffee, Lichan Humtsoe described social media as a ‘saviour’ where everyone gets to speak out without having to have approval of any authority.
Highlighting the positive aspects of social networking sites, Humtsoe said besides being able to connect with each other, it makes learning easy and free for people of the same profession instantly, perfect place to showcase work and talent, don't need to spend a million on adverts and promotion, can run a business online without having to rent out a shop or build an expensive website, religious ministry is made easy, sensitisation and other educational programmes are conveniently disseminated.
At the same time, he cautioned that the freedom of speech we enjoy on social media have a heavy price to pay where most conversations are not friendly and accommodating. However, he observed that the person who made mistakes come back the next time with much refined opinion. ‘Now that is a true of learning’ he added positively.
Acknowledging the vast opportunities that are being created through Facebook, Kera cautioned that people need to draw the line as it led to disunity of Naga family because of ignorant and ill-informed young people "spewing venom".
Ending on a positive note, he invited all social media detractors ‘MTV Era is over, it is now the era of Facebook, Whatsapp, Twitter and Instagram. Don't be a straggler; social media is here to stay.’
For the youth who are considered as the key component of a society’s present and future, the coming of social media with a wider audience is indeed transforming the young Naga generation to a whole new era through their involvement in community services reaching out to people in need upholding the right to survival of every being.
