Khiamngan Naga

Indian civilization is a tapestry of diverse cultures, among which tribal cultures hold significant importance, especially in the contemporary quest for one’s roots. Census reports indicate that approximately 6.97% of India’s population consists of tribals, ranging in numerical strength from small communities like the Andamanese to larger groups like the Bhils, numbering over 5 million. These tribes exhibit various racial types, including proto-Australoid, Mongoloid, Negrito stocks, with contributions from Palaealpine, Nordic, Mediterranean, and Negroid backgrounds. Their languages belong to all major language families, with Austric, Dravidian, and Tibeto-Chinese being predominant.

Traditionally, tribal societies sustain themselves through agriculture, forestry, and animal husbandry, although many are adapting to changing circumstances.

Khiamngan Naga

The Naga tribes inhabit the hilly regions on the eastern frontier of India, with Tuensang District, the home of the Khiamngan Nagas, situated on the extreme fringe of this hilly terrain. They reside on hilltops, often with two or more exogamous clans jointly governing villages. Their traditional practices include jhum (shifting) cultivation, with the Mia and Tsokum festivals marking the sowing and harvesting seasons. The Khiamngan Nagas demonstrate exceptional craftsmanship, as seen in the daos (swords) and spear-heads they use, and basketry is a significant industry among them. They are known for their beautiful shawls, adorned with bright blue and red squares, embroidered with dog hair. During ceremonial dancing, they embellish themselves with ornaments, presenting a picturesque sight.

(Consultant for text: B. K. Roy Burman)