Avitoli G. Zhimo, University of Delhi
ABSTRACT
An array of images has been used in this photographic essay to argue how the Sumi Naga (erstwhile Sema
Naga) of India has indigenised Christianity as a strategy to retain their cultural identity while holding on to the
new faith. The conversion to Christianity resulted in a change in social structure and culture. The converted
Sumi Naga took water baptism to indicate that their old life is gone, behold the new has come. While
renouncing their old self, they also disengaged every belief and practice. By the late twentieth century, the
realisation dawned, that they can be Christians at the same time remain a Naga. Erection of centenary gate in
the middle of the town decorated with animistic motifs and celebrating Tuluni, an agricultural festival in the
church are some examples of indigenising Christianity.
KEYWORDS
Indigenising Christianity, Naga tribes, Tuluni, Headhunters
