The Angami Women Organization (AWO) has expressed deep concern regarding an Instagram reel created by Agou Hengoulal Sitlhou, which displayed a lack of respect and improper use of Naga traditional attires. It has also urged the content creator to remove the content, and apologize in the public domain for portraying traditional attires in an improper manner.

“It may be noted that the Naga traditional attires are not merely garments and ornaments to be worn; they have rich significance both historically and culturally. Each piece of the Naga traditional attires reflects the heritage, identity and values of the communities they represent, and they carry the stories of our ancestors, woven with care and worn with a deep sense of pride and dignity,” stated the AWO in a condemnation note issued by President Neithono R. Sothu and General Secretary Atono Kense.

With traditional attires being a vital part of cultural heritage, the AWO opined that such heritage should be portrayed respectfully, in accordance with the traditions and intentions of thr culture. “Any misuse, mockery or commercialization of these garments diminishes their true meaning and undermines the cultural richness they embody,” remarked the apex women organisation of the Angami community.

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While the Organisation encouraged the appreciation of Naga traditional clothing, it asserted that such appreciation and display must be rooted in respect and understanding.

“Using these attires for costumes, superficial displays, or profit-driven purposes not only disrespects the communities they belong to but also demeans the value it holds and the authenticity of our traditions. The reel In question featured various tribal attires in a manner that fails to honor their true significance, and it is not a celebration of our culture, but is derisive in nature,” expressed the AWO.

In this regard, it strongly urged the creator to remove the content, and also apologize in the public domain for “portraying our traditional attires in an improper manner without understanding the importance, dignity and value of our cultural heritage.”

It also called upon all individuals to have a deeper understanding of the traditional attires before displaying it publicly.