Globalisation and New Identities: The Cultural Evolution of the Naga Community

Abstract

Over the past century, the Nagas, a collective of traditionally indigenous communities living in the North East of India, a region that borders Myanmar, continue to experience cultural transformations in their shared culture and identity. The emergence of new cultures and identities that came in with the arrival of Christianity contributed to the fading of their own age-old traditions, oral histories and customs that gave them a unique identity in the subcontinent. In present times, globalisation, modernisation and digitalisation has further transformed their culture and identity as witnessed in the urban centres of Kohima, Dimapur and Mokokchung Town. These hubs of modern life are further evolving the Naga identity as they adapt themselves to new cultural transformations. However, despite the pull towards the creation of drawing out a modern identity, one that has been shaped by global influences, concrete efforts are being made to blend the past with the present. This in turn is enabling the Nagas navigate between their indigenous way of life and at the same time adapting to contemporary ways of expression. The paper examines the ways in which the Nagas are redefining themselves and creating a unique identity for themselves which is a fusion of their traditional practices, their new found faith and the demands of modernity.