Nagaland- The Tribal State

India is the biggest democracy in the world with 29 states and 7 union territories. Out of those 29 states, NAGALAND is one of the smallest states which is present in North-east. It is the part of the well-known Seven Sisters of India. These seven sisters include Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Meghalaya, Manipur, Mizoram, Nagaland and Tripura.

Nagaland is surrounded by Myanmar (on east), Arunachal Pradesh (on north), Assam (on west) and Manipur (on south). Mostly it is covered with mountains except the part which borders the Assam Valley.

The inhabitants of Nagaland are called Nagas. More than 20 tribes are formed by these Nagas. Out of all the Naga tribes, Konyak is the largest tribe. Nagas are generally seen wearing colourful outfits with bamboo shields and decorated spears. Nagas are very simple people with good heart.

Kohima is the capital of this beautiful state. It is a mountainous state. Angami, Ao, Chakhesang, Chang, Khiamniungan, Konyak, Lotha, Phom, Pochury, Rengma, Sangtam, Sumi, Yimchunger, Zeme Liangmai (Zeliang), Dimasa Kachari, KukiandRongmei (Kabui) are the famous 17 tribes that are found in this area. Each and very tribe is unique in themselves. Each one of them have different traditions and believes.

The tribes are known for their festival sprite. On occasion like festivals, marriages and harvest, they just burst into dance and music. All this is magical and it is an awesome view to watch them. Folk songs and ballads are popular among the Nagas uphold such values as bravery, love, generosity etc.

Their dances are woven around the war theme. One of the well-known dances among these people is Bamboo dance. Young girls dressed in colourful clothes perform this dance form at an incredible speed with a lot of accuracy.

All the Naga tribes have their own particular festivals. Zemis is another tribe which is found in Nagaland. SANKARI is the major festival of this tribe. Other tribes which are found here are Angamis tribe and Aos tribe. The major festivals of these two tribes are Sekrenyi and Moatsu respectively.

The tribes are very creative and are famous for their craft work. Wood carving is a famous Naga craft. Also, weaving is a traditional Nada art. Each tribe has its own specific way of doing it. They have specific colours and designs.

Nagaland is a small state, but there are so many interesting facts about this place. It is a beautiful place which is full of very interesting stuff and facts.