Why is media posing 'Nagaland' as a development model caused due to Christianity induced religious conversion?

Kohima, Jul 3: In an article published by ANI, the news agency has posed that Christianity has transformed Nagaland and credited Christian conversions in the North Eastern State for the development there. The article quotes, Nagaland, embraces an overwhelmingly Christian population, with over 80 percent of its inhabitants following the faith. This northeastern state houses approximately 1,708 churches and claims the largest Baptist Christian community globally, underlining the profound influence Christianity has on Naga society.

 

 

 

 

In December 2022, Nagaland celebrated the significant milestone of 150 years since Christianity first graced its land, marking a transformative era in Naga history. This event, which deeply influenced the cultural, social, and political life of the region, involved more than just American missionaries. Integral figures in this transformation include local Naga inhabitants and an Assamese evangelist who contributed significantly to this event. American missionary Edward Winter Clark, who baptized 15 converts from the Ao Naga village of Molungkimong on December 22, 1872, is celebrated as a hero in Nagaland.

 

 

His legacy is preserved in monuments, museums, and educational institutions. However, equally significant contributors, such as Supongmeren Tzudir of Molungkimong and Assamese evangelist Godhula Brown, have often been overlooked. Godhula Brown was a converted Christian from Assam's Sibsagar district, which lies adjacent to the Naga Hills. He established a connection with Supongmeren and his companions from Molungkimong when they ventured into Sibsagar in search of resources following a devastating epidemic. Godhula, recognized to some extent in Assamese and Naga Baptist Christian circles, shared a complex relationship with Clark, with their perspectives often diverging.

 

An embodiment of the strong Christian presence in Nagaland is the monumental Sumi Baptist Church in the town of Zunheboto. Holding the title of Asia's largest church, this architectural marvel stands as a testament to the state's religious devotion. Built over ten years, the church can accommodate around 8,500 worshippers and its imposing structure, standing 75 feet high, can be seen for miles around.

 

  

The sight of this imposing church, nestled amidst the scenic hills of Nagaland, is a stark and beautiful symbol of the enduring influence of Christianity in the region, underscoring the unique religious landscape that sets Nagaland apart. The transformation that Christianity brought to Nagaland extends beyond the physical and social changes, encompassing even indigenous artistic and storytelling traditions. The influence of religion has transformed local comic traditions and marked the beginning of a vibrant theatre scene in contemporary Nagaland. Indigenous folklore, religion, performance aesthetics, and graphic storytelling remain integral elements of this rich, multifaceted narrative.

 

 

--