Dr Asangba Tzüdir
For sure, Nagaland will easily enter the Guinness Book of World Records for having the distinction of most unions if such a record in included in the list. The increasing number of unions, donations and collections has been aptly enacted by the theatre group Dreamz Unlimited in one of their latest play. It elucidates the current state of affairs where collections and donations have really become a painful thing eating into the family budget. Highlighting the various forms of “joborjosti” (forced) donations and collections, it adds “even the ten tithes which is God’s share is not spared.” Like a normal affair, it has reached the extent of collecting half salary without hardly any consideration about the sustenance of the family for half of the month. It raises the question, “Why do we organize huge programmes depending on the people for finances” and also a thought on whether it serves the larger objective of ‘unity’, ‘good’ and ‘welfare’ for the community.
In a way, the numerous tribes and its diverse tribal conglomeration, villages, clans, ranges etc. etc. are reflected through the various forms of unions, organizations, associations, groups each of which have its sub-branches and units across and which increases the number of collections and donations. The idea of unity and representation as well as for the larger good and welfare of the community have been the basis of its existence, but sadly, the present status of Naga society and the various forms of divisions is testament enough that the existence of the so many unions has not contributed to the larger unity and cohesiveness of the Nagas.
The amount and level, and the ‘nature’ of donations and contributions is so rampant that it has become almost like ‘extortion.’ The transition from tradition to modernity also took an ‘undesirable’ shift from ‘communitarian good’ to ‘individualism’, and rather than revival of the communitarian principles it has caused more of bracketing and divisions creating a multiplicity of colors.
The number of commemorative celebrations and various programmes which more often goes way out of proportion draws upon the Naga sensibility. It has instilled a wrong sense of competition among the various unions, groups, organizations that it gets unnecessarily pompous and showy and in the process drains the family budget which seriously disrupts the functioning of the family.
Rather than seeking donations and contributions which includes even demand for diversion of ten tithes, we need to think about better and innovative ways of generating money and resources and thereby help cut down on donations and contributions. And it is also time for all the various unions and groups and associations etc. etc. to do away with all the unnecessary ‘ritualistic’ practices and rather stay more relevant with the times. For now, the ‘symbolic’ unity and representation has caused more of disintegration which in no way help the larger cause of Naga unity. But on the whole, something innovative needs to be done in order to stop this sickening menace of donations and collections which only reflects the redundant and non-progressive nature of Naga society.
(Dr. Asangba Tzudir is a Freelance Research and Editing Consultant. He contributes a weekly guest editorial to The Morung Express. Comments can be mailed to asangtz@gmail.com)
