The Angami Women Organization (AWO) has expressed strong condemnation over an Instagram reel created by one Agou Hengoulal Sitlhou.
In a statement, AWO president Neithono R Sothu and general secretary Atono Kense said that Agou had displayed lack of respect and improper use of Naga traditional attires.
AWO emphasized that Naga traditional attires were not mere garments or ornaments, but hold deep historical and cultural significance.
The organization noted that each piece of the Naga traditional attire reflect the heritage, identity, and values of the communities it represents, carrying ancestral stories, woven with care and worn with a deep sense of pride and dignity.
AWO stressed that the attires are a vital part of the cultural heritage and should be portrayed respectfully, in accordance with the traditions and intentions of Naga culture. It said that any misuse, mockery or commercialization of these garments diminishes their true meaning and undermines the cultural richness they embody.
While encouraging the appreciation of Naga traditional clothing, AWO underscored that such appreciation and display must be rooted in respect and understanding.
It condemned the use of traditional attires for costumes, superficial displays, or profit-driven purposes, stating that such misuse not only disrespects the communities they belong to but also demeans the value it holds and the authenticity of Naga traditions.
AWO said that the reel in question featured various tribal attires in a manner that failed to honor their true significance, adding that “it is not a celebration of our culture, but is derisive in nature.”
In this regard, AWO urged the creator of the reel to remove the content and issue a public apology for the inappropriate portrayal without understanding the importance, dignity and value of the cultural heritage.
AWO also urged individuals to have deeper understanding of the Naga traditional attires before displaying them publicly.