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Chiru Naga

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The Chiru Tribe: Cultural Heritage and Contemporary Identity

The Chiru tribe, an ethnic group with a presence in various regions of India, including Tamenglong, Senapati, and Bishnupur, holds a significant cultural heritage. The name 'Chiru' is etymologically linked to 'the seed of a plant,' symbolizing growth and continuity. Over time, the Chiru tribe has cultivated traditions of musical recitals and dance, deeply intertwined with Manipuri culture. In this regard, the Chiru tribe shares commonalities with other tribes in the state, particularly in their artistic expressions and communal festivities.

Cultural and Social Identity

The Chiru people are part of the Kuki tribal family, preserving their language, customs, and rituals. Their linguistic roots trace back to the Tibeto-Burman family, specifically the Chin-Kuki language group. Identifying a member of the Chiru community is relatively straightforward due to distinctive physical features, which are influenced by their close relationship with the Naga tribe. Chiru people have adopted Naga-style attire and hairstyling, and their physique resembles that of the Naga tribes.

Dormitories hold a significant place in Chiru tribal society, with separate quarters for unmarried men and women. This practice aligns the Chiru tribe with the broader cultural patterns of northeastern tribal communities in India. Historically, these dormitories served as centers for social learning, where young members of the tribe were educated in traditional customs, folklore, and survival skills.

Economic Activities and Livelihood

The Chiru tribe is one of the branches of the Komrem community, which includes, in addition to the Chiru tribe, four other tribes: Aimol, Purum, Koireng, and Kom. These tribes sustain their livelihood primarily through farming, engaging in shifting and wet farming practices, well-suited to the mountainous terrain. They also cultivate an array of juicy fruits such as bananas, oranges, lemons, and papayas for both sustenance and commercial purposes.

Additionally, some Chiru tribes have developed expertise in cottage industries, particularly in crafting exquisite baskets and cane products, which are in demand in Manipur's market. The Chiru tribes of Manipur have demonstrated their skills and artistry in weaving, carpentry, and the manufacture of musical instruments. Their craftsmanship is highly regarded, with many of their handmade products being sold in regional markets and beyond.

Historical and Political Recognition

The Chiru tribe is one of the Naga tribes that mostly resides in Manipur and some in Assam, India. They are listed as a Scheduled Tribe, in accordance with The Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes Orders (Amendment) Act, 1976 of the Indian Constitution. Their status as an indigenous Naga tribe has been well recorded in historical documents, including the Royal Chronicles of Manipur, which date back to the 11th century.

Population and Demographics

According to the 2011 census, the population of the Chiru tribe in Manipur was 8,599. However, recent estimates suggest that the population has grown, with settlements expanding into neighboring regions such as Assam.

References

: Thanglen Hosea, Origin Migration and Settlement of the Chiru Tribe, International Research Journal of Social Sciences, 2015. 

  "Chiru People - Wikipedia"

 : Stirn, Aglaja & Peter van Ham. The Hidden World of the Naga: Living Traditions in Northeast India. London: Prestel. : "The Constitution (Scheduled Tribes)". Archived from the original on 2017-09-20. Retrieved 2016-07-31.

  "Census of India 2011". MHA, Govt of India.

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