Anjan K Behera,
Research Scholar (English) - NU
A union of two hearts, definitely yes, But also a façade, a grand narrative, Weddings in Nagaland are pomp contests; It’s a brazen pageantry of lavish replicas, It’s the slam dunk of money pits.
Impersonal invites, all doused with glitter, Only the names differ, perhaps the font. An RSPV number that no one RSPVs to. Like good roads are Christmas cards scarce, Wedding cards now dominate the Yuletide.
“Good weddings” mimic Western themes. Bridesmaids all dressed like the Von Trapps, Wedding gowns from Bangkok, and Armani shoes. Pricey orchids, glittering crystal chandeliers; For how can two souls unite without these?
If the feast serves only Naga dishes, It’s subpar, and the hosts are misers. But dole out Indian and Continental, Provide some crème brulee and beers, Only then is it a “bishi bhal wedding”.
Photographs immortalised the wedding day, And reminded all of the mirth and glee. Expensive pre and post wedding shoots today Have distilled corny poses and overdone angles. What is next? Wedding-night photoshoots?
Lost like Eden is our culture and heritage, As we imitate the West and forget the rest. There’s nothing Naga about Naga weddings, Crores spent so we can be less of ourselves. A thousand bells of folly aloud it rings.
A marriage of true minds is grand and holy, It is an ever fixed mark, set in immortal stars, Where promises are kept, and never altered. Such fidelity requires no garish decorations, Just true love’s kiss, and vows within.
