Importance of Beads in Nyishi Tribe of Arunachal Pradesh: In Changing Cultural Scenario

Abstract

The Nyishi tribe is one among the major tribe of Arunachal Pradesh. Genealogically the Nyishi are descendants of the great ancestor Aabhu Thanyi/Abo Tani. They are divided into three major clans namely Dopum, Dodum and Dollu. They inhabit the Eight districts of Arunachal Pradesh, namely Papum pare, Keyi Panyor, Upper Subansiri, Kurung Kumey, East Kameng, Kra Dadi, Kamle, Pakke-Kessang and some other parts of the state of Assam. Nyokum Yullo, Boori Boot Yullo, Longtey Yullo and Yullo Uyus Uanam are the main festival celebrated by the Nyishi’s. Beads is an important part of traditional dress of Nyishi women as well as Men. Beads are even part of the Oral tradition of every tribe of Arunachal Pradesh. Beads talk about their historic linkages across the political and cultural boundaries through trade; economic status of an individual in a society, as well as medium of exchange. It also constitutes an important element in bride price or marriage gifts. Beads even represent social hierarchy in the tribe. Beads play a pivotal role in Socio economic aspect of Nyishi people. At the present time due to greater exposure to various forces of modernization and to some extent ‘Globalization’. This has resulted in significant changes in the overall social structure, cultural systems, and social relationships. This has made the so called ‘pure’ or ‘authentic’ beads highly valued individual or family possession, symbolizing their high socio-economic status. Such a transition has led to new realities; Beads have gradually been accumulated by some rich families and has impacted the Nyishi society.