Dimapur, October 5 (MExN): The Western Tenyimi Hoho (WTH) has condemned the use of Naga traditional symbols and motifs in in Durga Puja pandals stating that it is a “sacrilege to our traditions and religion.”
In a letter addressed to the President of Hindu Seva Samiti, Nagaland, the WTH said that the use of such Naga cultural expressions “without permission or consent” has deeply hurt the sentiments of the Tenyimi people in particular and the Nagas in general.
“Our traditional symbols/motif has its own cultural significance to which Nagas holds dear and random use of it cannot be tolerated. Naga society is intrinsically linked to our age old practices and cultures,” it said.
Stating its obligation to protect the rich culture, traditions and religion from being misused, diluted or abused, the WTH stated its desire to maintain cordial relations with every section of people practicing various traditions and religion.
“We have always believed in respect and peaceful co-existence with every communities and will continue to do so and we also expect you all to respect our traditions as a highly respected body,” it said, while appealing to the HSS to “reciprocate the same and take necessary actions to maintain peace and tranquility in the society.”
