Wancho Tribe: Arunachal's Cultural Gem

05 Jan, 2024

The Wancho community is an ethnic group primarily found in the northeastern part of India, particularly in the Tirap, Longding, and Changlang districts of Arunachal Pradesh. They are part of the larger Naga tribes.

Ethnicity and Location

Wancho people speak the Wancho language, which belongs to the Tibeto-Burman language family. The language is an essential aspect of their cultural identity.

Language

Historically, the Wancho community has been primarily agrarian, practicing shifting cultivation (jhum cultivation) and relying on the cultivation of crops like rice, maize, and millet. Hunting and gathering also play a role in their traditional economy.

Traditional Economy

The Wancho community has a rich cultural heritage with vibrant traditional dances, folk songs, and rituals. Their traditional attires, adorned with unique ornaments and accessories, reflect the cultural distinctiveness of the community.

Culture and Traditions

In the past, the Wancho were known for their headhunting practices, a traditional ritualistic activity. However, with the influence of modernization and changes in societal norms, this practice has faded away.

Headhunting Traditions

The Wancho people traditionally follow animistic beliefs and worship various deities associated with nature. However, with the influence of Christianity, a significant portion of the Wancho population has embraced Christianity.

Religion

The Wancho community traditionally had a well-defined social structure with a chief at the top, followed by various clan heads and village councils. With modernization, there have been shifts in the social and political dynamics within the community.

Social Structure