| Linyam Beyong |
Nyishi people, the largest tribal group in Arunachal Pradesh, have historically inhabited high-altitude settlements for security and strategic advantages. However, with the advent of modernity, they are now transitioning to the foothills and valleys for easier access to facilities while preserving their cultural roots. This shift reflects a broader cultural change, as the Nyishi people strive to balance tradition and modernity.
The transition to the foothills is not without its challenges. For many Nyishi people, the sudden transition from older ways of life has proven to be a significant challenge. This is particularly true for the first schools set up far from native villages, which raised a generation of mountain children away from their familial grounds. The problem of accessibility, coupled with language barriers among mountain dwellers who spoke various dialects, initially hindered communication and education. The older generation found solace in Assamese, a prevalent trade language, while subsequent generations shifted towards Hindi, reflecting broader cultural changes.
Despite these challenges, the Nyishi people have demonstrated remarkable adaptability. Today, many indigenous people in Arunachal Pradesh are predominantly polyglots, fluently speaking multiple languages including their mother tongue, Hindi, English, and Assamese. This linguistic diversity showcases the remarkable adaptability of generations to linguistic changes and diverse linguistic environments.
The traditional diet of the Nyishi people consists of a variety of different meats and vegetables found in the forests of Arunachal Pradesh, cooked without the addition of spices. However, the older generation finds the newer modern foods not to their liking. Bamboo holds a special significance in the hearts of the people of Arunachal Pradesh, serving as raw material for traditional homes, handcrafted baskets, stools and tables. The process of fermentation is also an essential part of Nyishi culture, with bamboo shoots found in every kitchen.
The Nyishi people adhere to animism through their Donyi Polo religion, venerating the sun (Donyi) and moon (Polo) as divine entities, embodying their spiritual and cultural beliefs. Nyokum Yullo, a Nyishi festival celebrated in Arunachal Pradesh, honours the gods for a bountiful harvest and communal prosperity. With vibrant rituals, cultural performances and feasts, it unites the members of the tribe in joyous festivities, fostering bonds and preserving heritage.
The Nyishi people's traditional attire is vibrant and different from other tribes, with red and white as the main colours. Women usually wear traditional jewellery called 'tassang' while men adorn a 'pudum' on their heads. The pudum, a traditional Nyishi headgear, is traditionally made from hornbill beak, hornbill feathers and bamboo cane. However, to protect the hornbill population, indigenous people have shifted to using bamboo or wood imitations, preserving tradition with care.
Nyishi people's transition from the mountains to the foothills reflects a broader cultural change, as they strive to balance tradition and modernity. Despite the challenges of accessibility, language barriers, and cultural changes, the Nyishi people have demonstrated remarkable adaptability, preserving their cultural heritage while embracing modernity. From their traditional attire to their religious beliefs and culinary practices, the Nyishi people's unique culture continues to thrive in the foothills and valleys of Arunachal Pradesh.
(The author is a student intern at Azim Premji University. This work was conducted as part of Mountains of Life, a large climate change festival being organized by the University.)
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of the organisation the student represents.