SENAPATI, Dec 10: Agou Hengoulal Sitlhou, a Manipur fashion influencer, has issued a heartfelt public apology after facing criticism for a recent photoshoot featuring Naga traditional attires. The video, shared online, sparked backlash for the “improper use” of the cultural outfits, leading the influencer to take down the content and address the concerns.

In a letter addressed to the President and Chairpersons of the Angami, Ao, Lotha, Sumi, and Chakhesang tribes, Agou expressed deep regret for unknowingly offending the people of Nagaland. The influencer clarified that the intention behind the photoshoot was to promote Naga traditional attire and showcase respect for Naga culture through creative expression.

“May I humbly submit that my intention behind the photoshoot was to express my love, appreciation, and respect for Nagas and to promote Naga traditional attires through the lens of creativity. However, I now realise that the manner in which the outfits were executed has caused harm rather than good,” the letter read.

Agou acknowledged the unintended consequences of the photoshoot and shared that the video was taken down the next day, accompanied by an apology on Instagram. Despite the initial good intentions, the influencer admitted that the execution had hurt the sentiments of the Naga tribes.

“I have always held great respect for all cultures, traditions, and people, and I understand now that my actions, despite being well intentioned, has deeply hurt the sentiments of the tribes which, at the cost of repetition, I humbly submit that I truly regret and seek your forgiveness,” the statement read.

The influencer assured the community of a commitment to learning from the experience and pledged greater cultural sensitivity in the future.