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Chang Naga

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The Chang Naga Tribe: A Comprehensive Overview

The Chang are one of the major Naga tribes of Nagaland, India, officially recognized as a Scheduled Tribe. Historically referred to as "Mazung" during British rule, neighboring tribes know them by various names, including Changhai (Khiamniungan), Changru (Yimchunger), and Mojung (Konyak).

Origin and Migration

According to oral traditions, the Chang originated from Changsangmongko, later settling in Changsang. The name Chang is believed to derive from chognu (banyan tree), linked to a mythical banyan tree at their ancestral home.

An alternative theory suggests that Chang means "Eastern", indicating migration from the east. Some Changs also trace kinship with the Ao Naga tribe, sharing similar folklore.

Demographics

The Chang primarily inhabit Tuensang District, with their traditional center at Mozungjami/Hakű village. As per the 2011 Census, their population was 64,226.

Social Structure

Clan System

The Chang society is organized into exogamous clans (phangs), each with distinct roles:

  • Ong (Tiger clan) – Associated with priestly functions.
  • Chongpo, Ung, Lomou, Kangshou, Kudamji – Other major clans.

Note: Some sources suggest clan-based spiritual connections to animals (tiger, wild cats, birds), though Chang society traditionally rejects rigid hierarchies.

Traditional Governance

  • Pre-Colonial Era:
    • Lakbou (Chief) – Earned status through headhunting (abolished post-British rule).
    • Mullang Shon – A central platform for resolving disputes and village administration.
  • Modern Administration:
    • Village Development Boards (VDBs) – Implement government schemes.
    • Village Councils – Composed of clan representatives, handling civil disputes.
    • Dobhashis (Interpreters) – Assist in legal matters under the district administration.

Religion

Originally animists, the Chang worshipped nature spirits, particularly Sampule Mukhao (paddy field spirit). Christianity, introduced in 1936, now predominates (99.5% as of 2001). The Chang Naga Baptist Association (1940) is a key religious body.

Culture and Traditions

Language

  • Chang language (Tibeto-Burman family).
  • Nagamese, English, and Hindi are also spoken.

Clothing

  • Traditional shawls (Mohnei) feature intricate designs, historically indicating warrior status.
  • Modern clothing is now common due to Christian influence.

Cuisine

  • Staple: Rice, meat, and fish.
  • Formerly: Rice beer (abandoned post-Christianization).

Music

  • Traditional: Xylophones, animal-hide drums, bamboo flutes.
  • Modern: Guitar and contemporary influences.

Festivals

Festival

Time

Description

Naknyu Lem

July-August

Honors ancestors, appeases sky spirits; no marriages permitted.

Kundang Lem

April/July

Jhum cultivation preparation, communal feasting.

Christmas

December

Widely celebrated due to Christian influence.

Naknyu Lem (Festival of Light)

A 6-day celebration rooted in myth:

  1. Day 1-2: Animal sacrifices, village cleaning.
  2. Day 3: Omen-reading with exploding seeds (Vui long).
  3. Final Days: Feasting, honoring the dead.

Economy

  • Primary: Jhum (shifting) cultivation (rice, millet, pulses).
  • Secondary: Barter trade (shawls for goods), woodcarving, weaving.

References (Footnotes)

Bibliography (Turabian Style)

  • Bareh, Hamlet, ed. Encyclopaedia of North-East India: Nagaland. Vol. 6. New Delhi: Mittal, 2001.
  • Kumara, Braja Bihari. Naga Identity. New Delhi: Concept, 2005.
  • Nag, Sajal. Contesting Marginality: Ethnicity, Insurgence, and Subnationalism in North-East India. New Delhi: Technical, 2002.
  • Prakash, Ved. Encyclopaedia of North-East India. Vol. 5. New Delhi: Atlantic, 2007.

 

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