The Nagas

Hill Peoples of Northeast India

Project Introduction The Naga Database

manuscript notes on the Zemi Nagas by Ursula Graham Bower

caption: Nsing-ngi genna: performed in November for very young children
caption: gennas
medium: notes
production:
person: Graham Bower/ Ursula
date: 1939-1946
refnum: Betts papers, ring binder 1
acquirer:
person: Centre for South Asian Studies, Cambridge
text: 3rd day: Heguong-ngi (The "Raja's" Feast).
text: On this day Asalu and Impoi observe a special feast, but Laisong, although they recognise the day and have the tradition, do not have any special ceremonies.
text: In Asalu a wealthy man of the Nriami clan acts as host and supplies drink and thirst-raisers to the village. (this is always the kadepeo, the 'land-owner' of the village, the senior land-owner if there are two. Both Asalu, Impoi (and Gareoloa) have Nriami kadepeos). This custom is said to be derived from Amang's great feast to all the men and animals. In the morning an old man offers zu and sliced ginger (ginger is pleasing to the spirits) outside the feast giver's house. Whatever other appetizers may be offered by the host, one prepared from ginger must be included, because such a one is given by Amang. The old men drink first, and then the others are summoned - that is, if there is enough beer left. Women may also come, but they do not - or should not - drink so much as the men.