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Dimapur, Jan. 20 (EMN): Emeritus Professor of Constructive Theology and Philosophy of Oriental Theological Seminary, Dimapur, and Convenor of Forum for Naga Reconciliation (FNR), Rev. Dr. Wati Aier, released a book titled “Cultural identity of the Nagas amidst tribal theology and globalisation” authored by Dr. AS Pillarson at Tourist Lodge, Dimapur, on Thursday.
Speaking at the book release event as a resource person, Aier stated that identity is not universal but relative and plural. While pointing out that many Nagas of Nagaland might have the perception that the Naga identity comprised 10 to 12 tribes, Aier proved them wrong saying that it consisted of around 47 to 48 tribes.
Aier preferred to use the word ‘cultural theology’ instead of using the ‘tribal theology’ as the terminology of tribal was given during the colonial period. As Nagas are fond of talking about the “cultural identity” and past, Aier stated that the present should be in relation with the future and added that the past must not dictate the present. He also termed cultural identity as “ontological” claiming that it is alive and not monolithic.
Dr. AS Pillarson, while sharing the journey of the book, informed that it took him seven years to complete the book. Dr. Pillarson also informed that he had faced a lot of difficulties, tragedies and financial problems during the process of writing the book.
The line of reasoning in the book is that cultural identity of the Nagas is in great danger in the processes of globalisation, hybridisation and the multiculturalism of the present societies for which something must be done to preserve, promote and popularise the Naga/tribal cultural identity.
It maintained that the holistic concept of the tribal/ Naga worldview is congenial for the contextualisation of the gospel and made an attempt to construct Christian tribal theology of identity and it would be relevant for those who are interested on the issues of the indigeneous people of Nagas
The welcome speech was delivered by secretary of Tangkhul Baptist Church, Dimapur, Ningreishang Shimray and the vote of thanks was delivered by wife of Pillarson, T Kikanaro Jamir.