CWWS warns against inaccurate online portrayal of Chakhesang traditional attires, stressing cultural authenticity, customary significance and responsible representation
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DIMAPUR — The Chakhesang Women Welfare Society (CWWS) has raised concern over incorrect representation of Chakhesang traditional attires on social media, including AI-generated and digitally altered content, warning that such portrayals risk creating misunderstanding about customary practices and cultural identity.
In a statement issued on Friday, the society said traditional attires are not merely garments but symbols of identity, history, customary practices and cultural values that have been passed down through generations.
According to the CWWS, recent instances of content portraying traditional men’s shawls as women’s garments do not accurately reflect the customary significance, identity and traditional usage associated with such attire.
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The society stated that Chakhesang traditional attires are governed by established customary distinctions and are gender-specific. It added that the use of particular shawls and garments is also linked to entitlement or status, age, occasion and marital status.
It maintained that traditional men’s shawls should not be used for women’s garments and similarly, women’s traditional attire and items should not be used by men.
The statement further noted that unmarried individuals should not wear attires or shawls designated for married persons, while shawls symbolising status, achievement or entitlement should not be worn unless rightfully earned or traditionally accorded.
The CWWS said respecting these distinctions is important to preserving the authenticity, dignity and traditional significance of Chakhesang cultural heritage.
It expressed concern that circulation of inaccurate portrayals on social media platforms could contribute to misunderstanding and misrepresentation of traditional practices, particularly among younger generations and audiences unfamiliar with Chakhesang customs.
While acknowledging growing interest in promoting and showcasing indigenous culture, the society stressed that such efforts should be guided by proper understanding, cultural sensitivity and respect for traditional meanings attached to attire.
“Cultural symbols should be preserved and portrayed in ways that maintain their authenticity and dignity,” the statement said.
Describing preservation of authenticity as a shared responsibility, the organisation appealed to individuals, designers, photographers, content creators and the general public to exercise care and responsibility while depicting traditional attires and cultural elements in public and digital spaces.