DIMAPUR, FEBRUARY 21 (MExN): The Akehda Sangtamlarü Thsingmüjang (United Sangtam Women’s Association) has demanded an apology from Atsu Sekhose, a Naga designer, for incorporating a “Sangtam Male Shawl” into the wardrobe of Bollywood actress, Priyanka Chopra. The actress wore the dress during a reality show on February 7.
A press release signed by AST President, Lutoli Sangtam objected to the designer’s use of a male shawl in a women’s dress and stated that “it is a taboo for the Sangtam tribe. . .” The note said that “the designer being a Naga should know the customs and its usage because it is disparaging to the Sangtams in particular and even to other tribes too.” It added that the Sangtams have various shawls designed uniquely for men and women by their forefathers, “which have been preserved since time immemorial.”
It demanded that the designer “apologize before the Sangtams for wrong usage of its custom within a short period.” It may be noted that the United Sangtam Students’ Conference (USSC) had also objected to it.
