The Nagas

Hill Peoples of Northeast India

Project Introduction The Naga Database

published - Chapter II, 'Detailed Report on the Naga Hills Expedition of 1879-80', Capt. P.J. Maitland

caption: adoption of system of dobashis
medium: reports
ethnicgroup: Angami
location: Kohima Mezema (Mozima) Jotsoma Pulomi (Kenoma) Keruma
date: 1869-70
production:
person: Maitland/ Capt. P.J.
date: 1880
acquirer:
person: India Office Library, London
refnum: IOR L/MIL/17/18/24
text: In 1869-70 was first adopted the system of "dobashias, " literally "speakers of two languages" (Naga and Assamese) . These dobashias are officially spoken of as "residentiary delegates, " and are representative men from each of the more important Angami villages, who reside permanently at the head quarters of the district, and accompany the Agent wherever he goes. They are in some measure hostages, as well as intermediaries, and have been found most useful in managing the tribes. The following villages each furnish a delegate: Kohima, Mozima, Jotsoma, Konoma, Keruma, &c.