Guwahati: A new book, Chronicles of Colonialism: Navigating the Naga Hills, delves deep into the complex history of British rule in the North-eastern Indian region.
Authored by IIT Gandhinagar professors Alok Kumar Kanungo and Prashant Kumar Singh, the book offers a critical analysis of the colonial era’s impact on Naga identity and culture.
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The authors argue that while the Naga Hills have been extensively researched, a clear understanding of the evolving dynamics between the colonizers and the indigenous population has been elusive. By meticulously examining historical records and challenging the authority of colonial texts, the book offers a nuanced perspective on the transformation of Naga society under British rule.
“North-eastern hills, especially Naga hills, have been extensively researched by
scholars, covering different aspects of the socio-political lives of the communities living in that area, starting from the initial days of colonial encounters in the form of surveyors and explorers. This overabundance of literature creates a problem of navigation, and it becomes difficult for
researchers to understand the changing dynamics and attitudes of administrators towards the
people over a period of time,” said Prof. Alok Kumar Kanungo.
The book also critiques the categorization of Naga people as “tribes” and explores the broader implications of such labels. It offers a fresh perspective on the enduring impact of colonialism on the region’s identity and cultural heritage.
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Kanungo, an expert in Naga heritage with extensive field experience, and Singh, specializing in anthropological theory, bring a unique perspective to the study. The book is part of a larger body of work by Kanungo on Naga culture, including previous publications and ongoing research projects involving Naga scholars.
The authors advocate for a more nuanced understanding of the Naga people, emphasizing the importance of incorporating their perspectives and knowledge systems into the study of their history and culture.
With a foreword by renowned archaeologist Prof. Kishor K. Basa, the book is expected to spark important conversations about colonialism and its legacy in India. The authors also call for the establishment of an Indian Institute of Northeast Indian Studies to further research and understanding of the region.