The
Nagas
Inhabited by 16 major different tribes along with their
sub tribes, Nagaland is home to some of the most exotic
hill tribes, some of them very akin to the Red Indians.
Each tribe has its own exquisite dress, language and custom
handed down from generations, easily distinguished by the
colorful and intricately designed costumes, jewelry and
beads that they wear. Traditional motifs embedded in their
weaving and handicrafts, .....of folk songs and music praising
the brave deeds of ancient warriors .... to love songs,
distinct dances and colorful festivals, ...... Nagaland
is an exotic cultural delight.......
There is no common language but rather 60 different dialects and in some areas dialects vary from village to village.....Inter tribal communication is carried out in Nagamese. The Naga's are traditionally fierce warriors and some tribes practiced headhunting in the early years.
A few of the well known tribes are : Angami, Ao, Chakhasang,
Chang, Khiamniungan, Kuki, Konyak, Lotha, Phom, Pochury,
Rengma, Sumi, Sangtam, Yimchunger, Zeliang.....
Recommended reading : THE NAGAS - Hill Peoples of Northeast India by Julian Jacobs with Sarah Harrison, Anita Herle & Alan Macfarlane. (Published by Thames and Hudson)
