DIMAPUR — The
Angami Women Organisation (AWO) has expressed disappointment and deep concern
regarding an Instagram reel created by one Agou Hengoulal Sitlhou, which
displayed a lack of respect and improper use of Naga traditional attires.
“It may be noted that the Naga traditional attires are not
merely garments and ornaments to be worn; they have rich significance both
historically and culturally. Each piece of the Naga traditional attires
reflects the heritage, identity and values of the communities they represent,
and they carry the stories of our ancestors, woven with care and worn with a
deep sense of pride and dignity,” AWO statement said.
It stated that those attires are a vital part of cultural
heritage and should be portrayed respectfully in accordance with the traditions
and intentions of their culture. It added that any misuse, mockery or
commercialisation of those garments diminish their true meaning and undermined
the cultural richness they embody.
While it encourage the appreciation of Naga traditional
clothing, AWO stated that such appreciation and display must be rooted in
respect and understanding.
“Using these attires for costumes, superficial displays, or
profit-driven purposes not only disrespects the communities they belong to but
also demeans the value it holds and the authenticity of our traditions,” it
added.
It pointed out that the reel in question featured various
tribal attires in a manner that fails to honour their true significance, and it
is not a celebration of their culture, but is derisive in nature.
In this regard, AWO strongly urged the creator to remove the
content and also apologise in the public domain for portraying their
traditional attires in an improper manner without understanding the importance,
dignity and value of our cultural heritage.
It further called upon all individuals to have a deeper
understanding of traditional attires before displaying it publicly.
