Sample Solution

BEGC-131 Solved Assignment 2024

1. Read the following passage and answer the questions in your own words.

If India is the macrocosm that represents unity in diversity, Nagaland is the microcosm of that philosophy. A melting pot of different tribal culture and cuisines, Nagaland is place where primeval landscapes, ancient people can leave you floored. At the Hornbill Festival held from December 1 to 10 in the state capital Kohima. I discovered that the concept of Athithi Devo Bhava- 'Guest is God', came naturally to the Nagas, the indigenous people of the region.

The Hornbill Festival showcases a mélange of cultural displays under one roof, attracting visitors from across the world. It usually takes place in the first week of December at the Naga Heritage Village called Kisama, located $12 \mathrm{~km}$ from Kohima. The village gets its name from the two villages Kigwema ( $\mathrm{Ki})$ and Phesama (Sa), where the village is now established. The suffix 'Ma' means village. Seventeen major tribes including Ao, Angami, Chang, Konyak, Lotha, Sum and Chakhesang take part in the festival. Besides reviving and protecting the rich culture of Nagaland, it helps visitors have a closer understanding of the people and their culture.

According to Banuo Z Jamir, Nagaland's first woman chief secretary, the festival is named after the hornbill, the bird eulogized in Naga tribal folklore. "Hornbill is central to the Naga tradition, finding symbolic representation in their faith and costumes," She said.

For Nagas, the bird exudes qualities of nobility, beauty and bravery and because of its roar-like call, its strength is believed to equal that of a tiger which personifies the quintessential Naga warrior. It is also a symbol of fertility-reproduction and agriculture-and is perceived to possess social values similar to those of humans.

1. What is the philosophy being referred to?
2. Why Nagaland is considered a 'melting pot'?
3. The Hornbill Festival 'showcases a mélange of cultural displays under one roof'. Discuss this statement in the light of the passage.
4. What does the Hornbill represent to the Nagas?
5. Give a suitable title to the passage.

Answer:

1. The philosophy being referred to is "unity in diversity."

2. Nagaland is considered a 'melting pot' because it is a place where different tribal cultures and cuisines come together, creating a diverse and vibrant cultural landscape.

3. The statement "showcases a mélange of cultural displays under one roof" means that the Hornbill Festival brings together various cultural displays and performances from different tribes and communities in Nagaland. It serves as a platform where visitors can experience the rich and diverse culture of the region in one place. This is evident in the passage as it mentions that seventeen major tribes participate in the festival, helping visitors gain a closer understanding of the people and their culture.

4. The Hornbill represents nobility, beauty, bravery, and strength to the Nagas. It is central to their tradition and symbolizes the quintessential Naga warrior. Additionally, the bird is associated with fertility, reproduction, agriculture, and social values similar to those of humans in Naga folklore.