TRADITION AND MODERNISATION: A CHANGING ROLE OF WOMEN IN RONGMEI SOCIETY

The article critically reflects on the changing roles and status of Rongmei women in the age of confluence between tradition and modernisation. Rongmei women have traditionally been involved in family life and cultural preservation, observing practices through food preparation, weaving, ritual, community involvement and more. But a patriarchal culture and deeply rooted customary laws for generations kept them from participation in decision-making, property ownership and top-level leadership positions. And increasingly modernising has changed the picture. Increasing educational opportunities and the role of women in formal employment, as well as entrepreneurship through start-ups and self-help groups, increased women’s economic independence and social impact. The emergence of Christianity, with its syncretic outlook, has led some to assert themselves with increased literacy and participation in organisations among women. This has allowed them to take on moral leadership and, at times, influence social institutions more readily, albeit from the structures that support existing gendered norms. Groups such as Rongmei Lu Phuam (RLP) now lobby for women’s socio-economic welfare, culture, and group social development. The spirit of resistance from women leaders like Rani Gaidinliu, who is symbolic of indigenous women’s spiritual and political resistance, will be a source of hope in later societies. Rongmei women's lives have been discussed in a hybrid identity, balancing preservation of the tradition of the past with new possibilities and evolution within the community. It highlights ongoing struggles of the present and future, stressing that gender-responsive measures (e.g., in customary laws and inclusive development policies) are required for further women's empowerment. Finally, an ongoing response is needed so that Rongmei women can be actively involved in the development of their communities’ cultural and socio-economic future.