“Ramkuiwangbe Newme: Championing the Rights of the Heraka Faith among the Zeliangrong Nagas”, Viprabuddhi Substack, 31 Aug 2026.
““Youth should step forward to help the cause of the society” – Dr. Ramkuiwangbe Newme to PragNews, 2023
The recognition of individuals who dedicate their lives to the betterment of society is an essential aspect of acknowledging their remarkable contributions. In this regard, Dr. Ramkuiwangbe Newme, a prominent figure among the Zeliangrong Nagas from Assam’s Dima Hasao district, has recently been honoured with the prestigious Padma Shri award. His tireless efforts in advocating for the rights of the Heraka faith, a religious belief system practised by the Zeliangrong Nagas, have left a lasting impact on both the community and the larger Indian society. This essay aims to shed light on Ramkuiwangbe Newme’s significant contributions to the preservation and promotion of the Heraka faith, his role in community development, and the implications of his work for religious freedom and cultural diversity.
The Heraka faith holds great historical and cultural significance for the Zeliangrong Nagas, an indigenous community inhabiting parts of Assam, Manipur, and Nagaland in northeastern India. Ramkuiwangbe Newme has been at the forefront of efforts to safeguard and promote this faith. Through his extensive research, advocacy, and community engagement, Newme has worked tirelessly to raise awareness about the Heraka religion, its rituals, beliefs, and practices.
The history of the Heraka faith is intertwined with the visionary leadership of Haiphou Jadonang, the resistance efforts led by Rani Gaidinliu, the opposition to the militant Zaphuphizo, and the subsequent conversion of some Zeliangrong Nagas to Christianity. The traditional Zeliangrong pantheon is intrinsically linked to that of the neighbouring Manipuri, Assamese and Bengali HIndus. However, the arrival of Christian missionaries sought to uproot the centuries long indigenous tradition of the people………”
Read the full article at Viprabuddhi Substack.
