A Study on the Cowrie Shells of the Dimasas in Assam

Authors: Bhattacharjee S , Timung A , Kro J , Engti H and Rongchehon A

DOI: 10.23880/aeoaj-16000257

Volume 8, Issue 1

Abstract

Material cultural traditions the integral part of Tribal cultural heritage which get transmitted throughout generations. The Dimasas are dwelling in the states of Assam and Nagaland. They have a number of mythical beliefs and stories passed on throughout generations, mostly by oral traditions. Ranging from the story behind the origin of human beings to those reigning of the Dimasa kings, from the connection with characters of the Mahabharata to the stories of the common Dimasa people. These bear immensely important symbolic meaning in the cultural tradition of the Dimasas. In this regard, Cowrie shells used to play a very significant symbolic role in the daily livelihood activities of the Dimasas. They were used in medium of exchange, amulets and as well as a medicine. How far such traditions are being followed today by them? Whether the younger generations are well aware about these traditions or it is getting merely confined among their parental generations only. The present study attempts to highlight some of those significant myths, legends and folktales, as well as the significance of Cowrie shells, as noticed among the Dimasas of Karbi Anglong district in Assam. The paper is mainly based on primary data collection through empirical field work by applying appropriate methods.

Keywords: Myths; Legends; Oral Tradition; Shamanaiba; Hoja; Beads

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