Chiru tribe is an ethnic group living in diverse regions of India, including, Senapati, Tamenglong and Bishnupur. `Chiru` has an etymological significance. It connotes `the seed of a plant`.

Over the years, Chiru tribes developed a tradition of dancing, musical recitals, quite integrated to the whole Manipuri culture. In this way, they maintain a similarity with the other tribes of the state. They belong to the Kuki tribal family group, diligently following their language, mannerisms. The rituals and rites of the Chiru tribes are also the same.

No one can fail to identify a people belonging to a Chiru community due to their unique body features. It has a reason behind it. Due to their close relation with the Naga tribes these Chiru tribal communities too have adopted their style of dressing, hair doing habits. Moreover, Chiru tribes have got physique, quite similar to Naga tribes. They share a connection with the Kuki tribal group. Dormitories play an important role in the lifestyle of Chiru tribal society. Separate quarters are being constructed for bachelors and unmarried women. In this trend also Chiru tribes is similar to any of the northeastern tribal communities of India.

Chiru tribes sustain their livelihood by adopting the profession to that of any farmer. For practicing mainly shifting and wet farming, rugged terrains of the mountains are ideal. Ample quantities of juicy fruits like banana, orange, lemon, papaya are grown both for fulfilling their daily requirements as well as for trading purposes. Apart from these, there are quite a few of Chiru tribes who have developed the expertise in cottage industries. Exquisite basket and cane works have got a demand in the market of Manipur state. Also in weaving, carpentry and manufacturing of musical instruments, these Chiru tribes have proved their artistry and skillfulness.