Tarensoba Chang
Kohima
We are blessed with rich tribal traditions, vibrant attire, diverse dialects, and powerful oral histories passed down from our forefathers. Our culture and history are not merely written in books; they live in our villages, in the stories of our elders, and in the songs sung during festivals. Yet today, we witness a growing confusion among the younger generation. Many are gradually losing touch with their roots, becoming overly influenced by unfamiliar foreign cultures and creating cultural dissonance within our society.
When young people return to their native villages from cities and towns, some begin to behave like celebrities or models. They adopt foreign accents and use unfamiliar foreign languages, sometimes even avoiding conversations with village elders who cannot understand them. It is painful to see the confusion in the eyes of our elders. We must always remember that they are the ones who pray for us every day and sincerely wish for our success and well-being. Even if we do not know them personally, they know us through our parents and families. We must respect them with love and honor their faith, wisdom, and sacrifices. Because of them, our culture, traditions, and history remain alive today.
Today, many parents fail to teach their children about Naga folklore, tribal customs, and village history. Instead, children grow up learning more about foreign cultures. When teachers ask students to explore their cultural identity, many feel lost and uncertain. What is the value of knowing world history and geography if we remain unaware of the history of our own clan, kitchen, or village? Our culture cannot be fully understood through the internet. It is discovered by sitting beside our elders, listening to their stories, and spending meaningful time in our villages.
Another serious concern is the misuse of our traditional attire. In this modern world, modernization should never mean disrespect. Our forefathers wore their attire with dignity and purpose. Today, some redesign these sacred garments into unfamiliar modern styles and wear them casually without understanding their cultural significance. Traditional clothing is not merely fashion; it represents identity, honor, and heritage.
It is also alarming that many young people cannot speak their own mother tongue or dialect. Some are even unsure of their clan or village roots. Parents are the backbone of cultural preservation. They must guide their children to respect traditions, participate in cultural events, and value their tribal heritage.
The world is advancing rapidly, however, progress must not erase our identity. As Naga people, our strength lies in our unity, our respect for elders, and our deep cultural roots. If we forget where we come from, we risk losing the very foundation that makes us unique.
Let us move forward with modern knowledge while keeping our roots firmly planted in our own soil. Only then can we truly grow with dignity and honor.
