The Chakhesang Attire Regulatory Board (CARB) has issued a stern warning against the misuse and cultural appropriation of Chakhesang Naga attire and ornaments.
In a statement, CARB highlighted a growing trend of “self-styled cultural ambassadors” misinterpreting the community’s ancestral heritage under the guise of cultural promotion. “We wish to inform that stringent action shall be taken against those disrespecting our tangible identity in the name of modernity and fashion,” the board stated.
CARB emphasized that traditional Chakhesang attire and ornaments serve as an “autobiography,” reflecting an individual’s life journey through their clothing. The board warned it would “seriously take note” of those who misuse or misinterpret these cultural symbols without adhering to the norms associated with each article.
The board further urged artists and designers to approach Chakhesang heritage with respect. “We urge artists to promote our traditional heritage with respect, and designers to make their own designs instead of copy-pasting the motifs, the patterns of which were passed down through a carefully preserved culture of hands-on learning from mother to daughter,” the statement read.
CARB reminded the public that they are “mere guardians” of their traditions and cautioned against misinterpreting or misappropriating them. “We encourage people who want to promote our tangible culture to take time to go back to their roots and conduct their own research about the specific attire they wish to promote before blindly wearing or designing them in the name of promotion,” it stated.
It also noted that Chakhesang weaves are now protected under Geographical Indication (GI-542), and the board would not hesitate to take legal action against violators, including those from within the community, if necessary.
The statement was signed by Dr. Zavei Hiese, Chairman, and Nokho Nyekha, Member Secretary, CARB.
