Today in the current parlance, we hear a lot of harping on ‘Naga’ Culture and traditions and how it is to be preserved and respected. Indeed, I do not dispute that. However, my contention is that culture and traditions are like a river that takes from and bends with the geography and thus, is enriched, until there is the final amalgamation in the ocean.
The culture of the Naga youth- which by very definition is the way of life is not the culture of the past generations. There are smatterings of the past, nonetheless, it is unique in itself. We hear tell, of how we are a westernised people- to the extent of oblivion. We are even told that we are Indianised to an extent. What with the influence of Bollywood and the rest. However I feel and think the ownership of culture by any race or country or nation does not arise. It would not be wrong to say that- today, more so than ever, we live in the age of world culture or global culture in which each nation or race has borrowed or contributed. From this context I would like to ask as to-what is the contribution of the Naga nation and race to the world. Have we borrowed everything and our contribution, if at all, is only in meagre measure? If the answer is yes then we have to seriously introspect and analyse. For today, we live in a world where we cannot live in a secluded space. It is a time when as we mingle and travel, our unique worth and value as individuals or a set of People is determined by how much we have contributed to the melting pot.
In the area of technology and the sciences, we have to admit that we have a long way to go. We have the odd scientist here and there. But too few and far between, even if we compare with the more advanced north eastern states. Let alone the rest of India and not to mention the world. However, here I am taking the area of science and technology just as an example. What we can do is focus on our unique ‘naganess’. Indeed the Naga is one of a kind. We are unique in our approach to life. Our joviality and our sense of humour takes us a long way. We laugh at life and therefore, life, hard as it is becomes a little bit easier to bear for all of us. Perhaps that can be our contribution to the melting pot. Our culture of joy and happiness in small things. Perhaps, the Naga can teach the world to grin and bear. Here I am not discounting the other unique talents and gifts of the Naga. Indeed, I fully endorse that the Naga is no less than any other in any sphere, if not more! For all the mess that we are in we may even have a Messi in our midst! Nay greater than Messi! Do not underestimate yourselves my dear fellow Nagas, for, it is the Naga dignity at stake.
Edward Lotha
Edwardlotha157@gmail.com
