Women Centred Narratives: Rituals and Taboos of the Adi Tribe of Arunachal Pradesh

Abstract

The Arunachal Pradesh, the land of rising sun is one of the north eastern-state of republic India. The state is called mini India because it is home to more than 26 ethnic tribes. The tribes inhabiting the state are Adi, Apatani, Aka, Miji, Galo, Nah, Nishi, Meyor, Monpa, Idu-Mishmi, Sherdukphen, Tagin, Tangsa, Tutsa, Nocte, Wangcho, Khamti etc. Every tribe has its own unique cultutres and traditions. Every tribe has its own beautiful dialect. The people are peace loving and have been living here in harmony for centuries. The present study is about the women narratives: rituals and taboos of the Adi tribe. Adi tribe is one of the tribes of Arunachal Pradesh residing in the mountains and foothills of the Himalayan range.  The Adi’s mainly resides in the East Siang, Shi-Yomi, West Siang, Upper Siang, Lower Dibang valley and some parts of Lohit districts.  The Adi’s are rich in cultures, traditions and customs. Like many other tribes, the Adi’s do not have their own written scripts therefore they pass on their traditions and customs through oral methods. The tribe has a vast source of folk narratives, ritual and taboos. The folk narratives provide how the women have been potrayed in the society. Thus, folk narratives provide a base for the social folk customs and performing folk arts. Rituals and taboos are integral part of the tribal people and have deep rooted connections and also serve as the means of guidance and protection. The society is strict regarding discrimination of gender or age. We find socialization process of both the older generation as well as younger generations. Thus, the traditions and cultures are passed on.