Dimapur, August 19 (EMN): Social work trainees of North East Institute of Social Science and Research (NEISSR) organised an ‘Annual Cultural Day’ on the theme ‘Prevent, Preserve and Promote’ in its conference hall on August 19.
Dr. CP Anto, principal of NEISSR, spoke on the importance of preventing our indigenous culture from being obliterated and replaced by rampant ‘copying of other cultures.’
‘Preserving the originality of our own culture define us. Nagas or any tribal communities in North East are particularly known for their culture, which is defined by the beautiful attires, folksongs and folklores,’ he said. However, he cautioned that it should not just stay that way to be forgotten with the passing of years. He stressed on the importance of promoting culture through showcasing in its originality.
Augustine M Yanthan, Assistant Development Commissioner (Planning) and the chief guest, pointed out the need of filtering while assimilating other cultures into our own cultures. While expressing his happiness to be part of the programme, he also asked the social work trainees to ponder how far we as a society have deviated from our cultural roots.
He narrated examples from the olden times, where there were no need of locks for the house doors and granaries as honesty and the genuine work culture was in existence. He, however, lamented that value of work culture is fast dimishing among the present generations.
‘We are leaving behind a culture of corruption, a culture of easy money, a culture undergoing signs of decay for the future generations,’ he remarked. He urged everyone present to stay true to their cultural roots which consider honesty as a defining nature of a community and dignity of labour as a pride.
‘As people who will work on the ground realities of the communities, you all have a bigger responsibility,’ he reminded the social work trainees.
Other highlights of the day included plays based on folklores, exposition of cultural attires and cultural songs.
