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Rev. Dr. Wati Aier (second from right) and Rev. VK Nuh (third from right) releasing the book ‘Naga Day: Nagas without Borders’ on Dec. 9. (EM Images)[/caption]
Dimapur, Dec. 9 (EMN): The current condition of the Naga people is a point of reference for reflection whether they would be seen in positive light or in the negative in the future. This was the message that was offered as food for thought at a recent event in Dimapur that also saw the release of a book about the Naga identity.
The Forum for Naga Reconciliation (FNR) has released a book ‘Naga Day: Nagas without Borders,’ on Dec. 9 at the Dimapur Ao Baptist Arogo (DABA).
Rev. Dr. Wati Aier, convenor of the FNR, spoke at the event. He said that for too long matters that were thought to be priorities drowned out the ‘voice of history.’ “We are here, called to action at this moment,” he said.
Aier said to contemplate often about how history will view the Nagas many years from now especially among those who are present during the birth of “Naga day.” He wondered whether history would despise the Nagas or see them as a people without imagination.
Aier said further that the Naga people were determined to move forward from “toxic, contemptuous and myopic habits” and were now ready to participate in a “shared humanity of belonging.” The feeling of belonging is a beautiful gift from God and to turn back on it would mean to be “swept away by the flood of destruction,” he said. “In strengthening our sense of belonging and identity, we reinforce our confidence in who we are as individuals and as a people” he said.
The book opted for the word “nation” in place of “tribe” since the word “tribe” is a contested term defined by outsiders during the period of colonialism. “Nagas should not be dictated by the colonial language-Nagas should transcend” he said.
Dr Wati reminded that “Naga Day” was not a day for political agendas but a socio-cultural event during which Nagas will come together as one for a common belonging ‘where human imagination and creative application would be approached.’
The FNR envisages observing Jan. 10 of each year as “Naga Day.” The forum has requested the Civil Society and church to support the event.
The book highlights the thoughts of various Naga scholars and writers who have given their insights.
The FNR puts the record on public that it does not belong to any Naga national group. It is neither affiliated nor does it represent or support any group or political party.