Mao Naga Tribe is a major Naga tribe in Manipur. The Mao Nagas inhabit the northern part of Manipur, bounded by similar Naga tribes such as the Angami and Chakhesang tribes in the north, the Maram Naga and Zeme Naga tribes in the west and south, and the Tangkhul and Poumai tribes in the east. The Mao Nagas are also known as "Memei" or "Ememei", in their own language.
Origin of Mao Naga Tribe
Mao Naga Tribe bear an important place in the history of migration and dispersion of the Nagas. Makhel being the first settlement area of the Nagas and the Chutebu-Kaju, the place of dispersal of the Nagas are located in the Mao territory. The Mao Naga can be considered as the pioneer settler among the Nagas. Till today, the Mao nagas continue to play an important role in the politics of the Naga for their strategic location and as a permanent member of the Tenyimi Peoples" Organization (TPO).
Language of Mao Naga Tribe
The Mao Nagas speak "Mao" or "Emela" language which belongs to Angami-Pochuri group of Tibeto-Burman language family. Mao language is an officially recognised language which is taught as a subject in schools of the state.
Society of Mao Naga Tribe
The Mao Naga follows typical patriarchal and patrilineal social set up. Father is the head of a family. They practice monogamy and type of family is nuclear family. The Mao community gives more importance to the eldest and the youngest sons in a family since it is them who inherit their father"s ancestral property.
Religion of Mao Naga Tribe
Mao Nagas have their own traditional religion known as "Opfupe Chuna" meaning the religion of the forefather. They believe in the existence of a supreme God called "Oramei". Most of the Mao Naga people have almost all converted into Christianity.
Economy of Mao Naga Tribe
Traditionally, the Mao Naga is an agrarian community. They practice Jhum cultivation and cultivate different kinds of crops like rice, maize, potatoes, cabbages, chillies, tomatoes, etc.
Costume of Mao Naga Tribe The male members of the Mao Naga Tribe wear a special commemorative shawl which has a social recognition. His reputation spreads far and wide. He will be heard when he speaks.
