When did the chief guest culture take root in Naga society? It is difficult to pinpoint the exact moment, but it has grown so deeply over the years that it now defines almost every public gathering. From the state’s biggest cultural showcase, the Hornbill Festival, to the smallest colony meeting, the practice has become an expectation rather than an exception. Earlier attempts to address this issue have changed little. Some organizers have simply replaced the phrase “chief guest” with alternatives like “chief host” or “special guest,” but the behavior surrounding the role remains unchanged.
This culture is not just a harmless tradition. It often delays programs, shifts the focus away from community purpose, and reinforces the idea that an event gains value only when someone important occupies the chair at the top. Many events run longer than necessary because they must accommodate ceremonial speeches, introductions, and protocol formalities. Community gatherings that should be spaces for dialogue and shared responsibility become hierarchical occasions where the audience waits for one person to arrive before anything can begin.
More importantly, the chief guest culture shapes how society perceives leadership. It encourages a belief that recognition and authority come from being seen on a stage, not from meaningful service. Younger generations grow up thinking that an event is incomplete without a VIP figure. The community itself forgets that it has the capacity to celebrate, discuss, or solve issues without external validation.
This habit persists because it is comfortable and familiar. It also gives organizers a sense of prestige, and in many cases, it is tied to money and political patronage. Yet real change requires acknowledging that such practices no longer serve the needs of a society that wants to be more participatory and less hierarchical. Events should prioritize content, relevance, and community engagement. A chairperson or facilitator who guides the program with clarity and purpose is often all that is needed.
Breaking this cycle does not mean disrespecting leaders. It means recognizing that leadership is not measured by ceremonial appearances. It is measured by the ability to empower communities to take ownership of their own spaces. Naga society has evolved in many ways, but the chief guest culture remains stubbornly unchanged. It is time to let go of this habit and allow community events to stand on their own merit.
