Nagaland: Konyak Union dedicates traditional attire book

Konyak Union (KU) Headquarters, Mon, in collaboration with all Konyak frontal organisations, organised a cultural study tour-cum-dedication programme of Konyak Pulang Ow hei leng Laitep (Konyak Naga Traditional Attire Book) at KU Office, Mon Town, on January 16. The event marked a milestone in the preservation, documentation and promotion of the rich cultural heritage of the Konyak Naga community.
The book had earlier been formally launched by Chief Minister, Neiphiu Rio, during the Statehood Day celebration at Secretariat Plaza, Kohima, on December 1, 2026. The launch underscored the State government’s commitment to safeguarding indigenous traditions and recognising the cultural identity of Naga tribes through systematic documentation.
At the dedication programme, Rev. Metjen Konyak invoked blessings and emphasised the spiritual and cultural responsibility of preserving ancestral knowledge for future generations.
Addressing the gathering, KU president, K. Yamao Konyak, termed the book a comprehensive cultural record of Konyak traditional attire. He said the documentation would facilitate securing a Geographical Indication (GI) tag from the Government of Nagaland. Explaining the proposed GI registration, he said co-ownership would be recognised, with KU and the State government sharing primary and secondary ownership, thereby ensuring both community rights and state-level legal protection.
Yamao acknowledged the vital role of Nagaland Handloom and Handicraft Development Corporation (NHHDC) and Nagaland Science & Technology Council (NASTEC) for their guidance, technical and financial support, and institutional assistance. He further informed that KU would shortly launch a cultural study tour covering major villages across Konyak-inhabited areas, and appealed to the community to safeguard and uphold its distinctive heritage.
Special appreciation was extended to the Konyak Documentation Committee led by chairman Wanghen Chohwanglim, and the research team comprising Dr. Eche Wangnyu and Dr. Amo Konyak, whose scholarly work and field research made the publication possible. Tribute was also paid to elders, artisans and informants who contributed their knowledge and time to ensure authenticity.
The programme concluded with a collective resolve that Konyak Pulang Ow hei leng Laitep would serve as a lasting cultural legacy, strengthening Konyak identity, protecting traditional attire from misuse, and preserving the heritage of the community with dignity and accuracy for generations to come.