Suman, a retired Marine engineer with 44-years of service in the Merchant Navy, has a deep connection with India’s tribal communities. Having sailed across the world on various ships, Suman’s passion for travel was complemented by his curiosity and respect for tribal cultures, especially those in Nagaland. His love for these cultures dates back to his student days, when he and his friends would venture into tribal villages, immersing themselves in their unique ways of life.
“I’ve always been fascinated by tribal cultures all over India. During my schooling, my guardian was an Englishman, a Forester involved in the timber business. He had a profound respect for the tribals of Chhattisgarh and counted Dr. Verrier Elwin, the renowned British anthropologist, among his closest friends. Dr. Elwin spent much of his life in India studying the tribes of Nagaland, Mizoram, and Meghalaya. It was through him that I developed a keen interest in the region,” Suman shared.
He expressed how his long-held admiration for Nagaland became a tangible experience after he visited the state for the first time. “Nagaland has such a rich cultural diversity, and I had read a lot about it, especially the Naga people’s history.
Suman further noted that while the Naga people are deeply rooted in their land, the region’s evolution over the years has been a mix of progress and challenges. “The arrival of automobiles and excessive traffic is a significant concern. The Nagas are a people who have always walked the hills, but now, the roads are congested with cars and motorbikes. It’s become a major drawback in the region, especially in urban areas like Kohima.”
Despite these challenges, Suman remains full of admiration for the people of Nagaland. “They are extremely polite, welcoming, and proud of their heritage. It’s a real pleasure to interact with them, as there’s so much diversity in the tribes here. The younger generation especially is full of potential. I’ve been involved in helping young people prepare for careers in the Merchant Navy, and it’s been gratifying to see their interest. However, what surprised me is that very few Nagas join the armed forces. There are plenty of opportunities in such professions, but no one seems to have explored this avenue with the locals,” he said.
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Suman’s first visit to the Hornbill Festival, one of Nagaland’s biggest cultural events, left a lasting impression. “I had seen it on television many times, but experiencing it in person was completely different. The way each tribe showcases its unique culture is fascinating. There is such a strong sense of identity here, and it’s something to be cherished,” he remarked.
One of the issues Suman feels strongly about is regulating tourism in Nagaland. “There has been an influx of visitors from other parts of India who come without understanding the culture. They expect a typical tourist destination experience, but this is a unique place with its own social structure. It is important that visitors respect this and approach it with awareness. There needs to be better regulation of tourism to maintain the balance between development and preserving the cultural heritage,” he added.
Reflecting on his time in Nagaland, Suman expressed a deep sense of fulfilment. “The natural beauty here is extraordinary. The terrain is challenging, yet the Naga people have managed to thrive in such a difficult environment. Their ability to live and interact with nature in these hilly regions is truly amazing.”
At 75, Suman’s enthusiasm for travel and exploration remains undiminished. “I’ve already made plans to return. Even at my age, I feel I have much more to discover here. Nagaland is a place that leaves a lasting impression, and I look forward to experiencing it again.”
