With competition intensifying in every area of human affairs, the desire for a more meaningful and productive human resource has also gathered momentum, which in the present day has come to be measured by originality. In fact, talent these days is perceived and considered on the basis of originality. Take for instance a musician, it is not just enough to have a good voice or to play an instrument well, the talent and caliber is assessed on the strength of ones originality, because it is originality that is creative, sustainable and finally compelling enough to be the difference.
One of the overwhelming stereotypes – perhaps rightly so to a certain degree – is the supposition that Nagas generally have a good singing voice and that harmony and chanting of music is innate to the Naga way of life. And modern history has witnessed every generation produce many contemporary young Naga women and men with the gift of voice and music. Yet, the common thread that generally unifies the diverse generations is the wanting need of something called originality. It will not be wrong to point out that the lack of originality has been a fundamental reason preventing Nagas from making valuable contribution to world music. The few that have made it, you will notice strive on either perfection or originality, and in even fewer cases, both.
The question of originality in the case of the Nagas is not just confined to the area of music alone. Everywhere around us we see the conditioning of the human mind stifling the human yearning to be purposeful through their own unique characters. The culture of imitation is fast eroding into our ability to be true to ourselves and to our Creator. Hence, the need for originality is seen wanting in all areas of Naga life. And therefore the absence of originality is a social predicament; which requires a social and political response that will break the vicious cycle by creating a new spirit of life that breeds and forms critical consciousness.
There is no doubt in my mind that for Nagas to break out of this suffocating situation, we need to rediscover our originality, which necessitates challenging the status quo in all spheres of life and creating a new consciousness that nurtures a culture of life. At the center of this need is the role of music, which assumes great importance considering that Nagas are supposed to be musically inclined. In my understanding, Naga music is a reflection of the conditions of our mind and being. If one were to accept this view point as a basis for discussion, we will conclude that the present Naga mind like the contemporary Naga music we have, profoundly needs a ‘root and a soul’ that will give it meaning and purpose of existence.
By originality, I don’t mean going back into time and space of history, rather I propose that is implies what is inherently innate and created from within ourselves, which has been nurtured by the experiences of historical forces and one that has come to reflect who we are as people. The issue of ownership therefore is central to the question of originality. Therefore in the case of music, I don’t mean that it should be songs that were sung in the days of our ancestors, but what I wish to mean is that the lyrics and music be truly representative of the artist and one that reflects the values, experiences and yearnings of people.
I truly believe that Naga society will begin the path of transformation when Naga artists begin rediscovering their roots and originality; and hence assume the prophetic role of pathfinders through their creativity and imagination. The intimate role between artist and transformation cannot be underplayed; neither can the interplay between music and community be ignored. From this perspective, I have come to appreciate the spirit of Abiogenesis for swimming against the tide, and against all odds being true to themselves and their beliefs. Their contribution to world music in the form of ‘Howey’ is commendable. I hope that many young Naga artists will be inspired to inculcate the same spirit of originality and imagination.
I for one believe that the great contributions Nagas can make to the world, is through their original music. And once the Naga music acquires a semblance of originality, I am persuaded to believe, the Naga nation too will sway to that music with purpose and imagination.
