By OR Shallam
The article that appeared in The Shillong Times (ST August 3, 2020) captioned “Niamtre, Hinduism and Ram Temple in Ayodhya” by H H Mohrmen merits clarification. While perusing the article and the writer’s views on the so called ‘indigenous faith’ or ‘tribal religion’ commonly known as “Niamtre”, the manner in which the writer criticized our faith baffles me and makes me wonder if in a way he is not criticizing his own identity. He mentioned the influential aspects that Hinduism has on Niamtre in the Jaintia region specifically citing the example of Nartiang upholding puja as a mark of worship of Goddess Durga. If the writer is well versed with the tradition and heritage of the Nartiang village he would know how the Durga Mandir came into existence. But the writer seems unaware of its importance’s towards the Niamtre faithful in Nartiang.
I am tempted to state here that Mohrmen must have probably done his research based on false references and therefore imprinting and portraying the Niamtre in Nartiang as Hindu prodigy. Even if by any chance there does occur an influence that could be traced as mentioned by the writer it has had a positive impact on nature as it strengthens the roots and originality of the religion. In no way can the influence be deteriorating nor can it eliminate the entire population that an influence by the Christian denomination through their conversion policy could trigger. Is Mr. Mohrmen even aware of that? Or perhaps it would be better if he carried an extensive research strictly on this issue.
The writer also mentioned the influence of Hindu Gods and Goddesses as he picked on Ram, Lakhon, Durka and Kongka and the significance they have on Niamtre religion. Does Mohrmen have any knowledge and understanding of the doctrine, perspective and teachings of Niamtre? We certainly do not need him to teach us our faith and religion, our beliefs and practices. Being a learned person does not his religion teach him to preach his own faith while respecting the faith of the others? Or is he shaken by the fact that we the followers and believers of Niamtre know well how to put ourselves together and uphold our roots while at the same time preserving our unique cultures, traditions and identity?
The writer further portrayed the believers of Niamtre as Hindus as we do not consume beef. Well let me inform that our culture has taught us not to consume our mother’s flesh considering the fact that the cow provides us with milk and rice every day. Is it now an element of surprise that our culture and faith that had been there since time immemorial had taught us this?
Niamtre doesn’t have any deal or agreement or MoU of any sort or any kind with any external body or sources in protecting ourselves from falling prey/victims to Christian “Love and Convert policy” However, we are open to any form of association and coordination with any organisation from our very own Indian soil like the RSS, ABVP or Sewa Bharti for a common cause that would work towards strengthening and cementing our roots and faith as well as enabling the flourishing of our unique customs, tradition and heritage.
It is true that as per census data, the Niamtre adherents are a minority community in the State which the State Government failed to notice and thereby eliminated from all official benefits as true minorities. However, correct me if I am wrong, but even Unitarianism does not have any proportion in the census rate. Before commenting on the Niamtre Mr Mohrmen should answer what influence the foreign delegates have on the Unitarian church? Is it not surprising that the Church is being supported by foreigners? Can anyone deny the fact that many foreigners visit the Unitarian church every year? Is the Church completely dependent on their support?
The writer must note that being a hypocrite and criticizing others is quite an easy game to play especially picking on a weaker community. But to pick holes on other’s religious beliefs, practices and teachings in a multi religious community will do no good unless the intent is to create havoc and differences amongst ourselves in this peace loving society and country of ours.
The writer also brands Niamtre practitioners as pagans and non-believers. Is this merely because we don’t believe in the God of the Bible? I personally find the statement very offensive and insulting. Why should we be perceived as non-believers if we cherish and keep our original ancestral religion intact?
Niamtre has been here since time immemorial and will always be here for the next thousands of years to come. We are proud of who we are, what we believe in and how we preserve our customs and tradition. I personally don’t understand what issues Mr. Mohrmen has with Niamtre. But for reasons best known to him, he should understand one thing. Niamtre is not being dictated nor supported by any external source. We support ourselves and we will always be in the face of the earth practising and preserving what we have been taught since time immemorial. So please, spare us from your pity.
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