Dimapur, March 10 (MExN): A total of eleven individuals presented papers during a one-day Postgraduate State Level Seminar on ‘Modernity Amidst the Indigenous Backdrop of Nagaland’ on March 10 at Tetso College. The seminar, organised by the Departments of English & Political Science, Tetso College, focused on preserving Naga indigenous culture and the interface between tradition and modernity in the Naga Society.
According to a press release received here on Friday, the keynote address was delivered by Anjan K Behera, Assistant Dean, School of English & Political Studies. Behera discussed the definition of modernity and how culture evolves through interactions with other cultures. He also expressed concern about the loss of Naga identity and tradition, citing the younger generation's lack of understanding of the significance of certain customs and clothing patterns. He suggested that education has not adequately sensitised people to the evolution of tradition, and that individuals may be contributing to the loss of native culture. Behera warned that Naga culture may fade quickly unless people become more aware of their traditions. He also cautioned the audience about the impact of social media on Naga identity and culture, which may distort traditional motifs and clothing.
The first Technical Session, moderated by Dr Eastrose, focused on the "Socio-Cultural Spectrum of The Naga Society" and featured presentations by five students from different colleges. Lamneiphal Khongsai (Oriental Theological Seminary) spoke about the need to deconstruct misogynistic attitudes towards men as homemakers, while Chubaienla Pongen (St Joseph University) emphasised the importance of preserving Naga cultural heritage. Imlirenla Ao (Tetso College) discussed the kinship terminology and marriage system in the Ao-Naga tribe, and Neiphrezo Ciesotsu (Tetso College) questioned the unclear and controversial notion of religion. Cheweu Mero (Tetso College) presented on the superstitious elements of daily life in the Angami and Chakhesang Naga tribes.
During the second technical session, moderated by Dr Jenny Lalmuanpuii, Department Coordinator of Mass Communication, six presenters discussed the theme of "Reading Nagaland: A Cross-Cultural Review." Akumsoba Longchar (Tetso College) spoke about Naga mythology and folklores, which have been passed down orally from generation to generation. Moamenla Pongen (St Joseph University) presented a comparative analysis of the status of the indigenous Ao dialect in two different districts. Swunilo Kemp (Tetso College) discussed the connection between religion and politics throughout history, while Sevotolu Rhakho (Tetso College) talked about policy options for effective segregation in North East India, which has suffered from insurgency for decades. L Yapangsangla Imchen (Tetso College) emphasised cultural fragmentation and the call for civilization in North-East India, and Manshom A Konyak (Tetso College) highlighted different folk songs sung by the Konyak Nagas, encouraging the younger generation to reconstruct the lost culture.
The release stated that the seminar ended with a valedictorian programme hosted by Kikrukhrie-ü Chishi, MA English, 4th Semester, Tetso College. Dr. Karan Gurung, Assistant Professor, Department of History and Lamneiphal Khongsai, MA in Clinical Counseling, Oriental Theological Seminary gave their reviews on the Seminar.
The closing remarks and certificate distribution were conducted by Hawaibam Loiyumba, Core Team Member of the Organising Committee and Thejasanuo, Co-convenor, Tetso College respectively. Around 80 participants actively participated in the seminar.
