Angami
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The Angami are one of the major tribes of Nagaland, India.
Their territory is made up of the present Kohima district which is divided into three regions based on the three main Angami groups:
- The Southern Angami (Japfüphiki - Viswema, Kedima, Kigwema and Jakhama) in the south of Kohima on the foothills of Mt Japfü,
- The Western Angami (Jotsoma, Khonoma, Mezoma, and Chakhro) in the west of Kohima, and
- The Northern Angami like Kewhima, Chedema, Meriema, Chiechama, Nerhema, Chiephobozou, Tuophema, Gariphema, etc.. in the north of Kohima.
The former Eastern Angami have separated off and are now recognised as Chakhesang.
The Angami, known for their ecological consciousness use their watercourses for terraced wet-rice cultivation; because of this labour-invested cultivation, land is the most important property form among the Angami.
Traditionally, property is divided equally among sons with daughters also receiving a share; in modern families it is generally shared among children. Among the Angamis, the youngest male in the family inherits the parents' house, which also means he is responsible for their care until they pass away.
Social groups in Angami community have equal status --- class or caste systems are unknown to the people. One can be known for wisdom or special achievements and earn extra respects in the society.
[edit] References
- Aglaja Stirn & Peter van Ham - The Hidden world of the Naga. ISBN 3-7913-2878-6
