SHILLONG, May 03: It is very unfortunate to the peopl e for the North Eastern states as in moat of their cultures superstitious beliefs still exists.
Pointing out that vandalism and ostracisim emerged out of superstition renowned writer Sweetimon Rynjah said that such heinous act has become a grave concern of the society.
Even after terming such beliefs as myth or an ultimate imagination of the people, it is a stigma in the society which should be eradicated, she asserted.
Addressing a two-day regional seminar on superstition in the Tribal culture of the northeast, ‘A study of Myth and Reality’ was organized by the Arts and Culture department at the Arts and Culture Hall Rynjah said, “The ever growing reports on devastating instances of mob fury resulting out of the various superstitious beliefs confirms that superstitions rule the mindset of the common people instead of rationality”.
She also cited a few incidences in the state since 2006 which included the case at Laitkyrhong, Mawlai, Mawbsein, Sohra, Joiram, Wahlyngkhat, Lampluh and the recent incident at Mawsynram while mentioning that the outcome of such beliefs had cost the lives and property of many.
Hence, she further added saying that it is not wise to indulge in the act of killing or vandalism just because such a superstitious belief is engrained in our culture; and that no culture teaches to kill people or destroy their property
Meanwhile, addressing the gathering as the chief guest, Pro Vice Chancellor of NEHU, Prof B Myrboh emphasized on the need to spread awareness not only in the urban areas but every nook and corner of the state. He stressed on the need to focus on education at the primary as well as higher level. “Ultimately, education matters and it is important to take it to the masses. As a step to try and eradicate such beliefs, he said “Let’s deal with it scientifically.”
On the same note, renowned writer and poet of the state Prof Streamlet Dkhar said that whenever incidences of mob fury out of superstitious beliefs takes place, it is then that the mythical beliefs are taken as reality.
The seminar was attended by as many as 15 resources persons from all over the region including scholars, writers of the state, teachers and students besides others.(SP News)
