Kohima: The Angami Women Organisation (AWO), apex women body of the Angami community, has expressed strong disappointment and concern over an Instagram reel created by Manipur fashion influencer Agou Hengoulal Sitlhou, alleging that it disrespected and misused Naga traditional attires.
In a statement, AWO President Neithono R Sothu and General Secretary Atono Kense said that Naga traditional attires are not just garments but hold deep historical and cultural significance.
They noted that each piece reflects the heritage, identity, and values of the communities they represent and embodies the stories of their ancestors, woven with care and pride.
The organisation emphasised that these attires must be portrayed with respect and in accordance with cultural traditions. Any form of misuse, mockery, or commercialisation, they said, diminishes the true meaning of these garments and undermines the cultural richness they represent.
While AWO acknowledged the importance of appreciating Naga traditional clothing, they insisted that such appreciation should be rooted in understanding and respect. They criticised the use of these attires as costumes or for profit-driven purposes, stating that such actions disrespect the communities and undermine the authenticity of their traditions.
The AWO claimed the Instagram reel depicted various tribal attires in a way that failed to honor their cultural significance. They urged the creator to remove the content and issue a public apology for the inappropriate portrayal of Naga traditional clothing.
The organisation also called on individuals to develop a deeper understanding of Naga traditional attires before publicly displaying or representing them.
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Nothing more than a subtle expression of racist, queerphobia. Things might have been different if it was done by another gender or perhaps on another body.