The Rongmei Naga: A Distinct Cultural Identity within the Zeliangrong Kinship
The Rongmei (also historically referred to as Kabui) are a prominent Naga tribe indigenous to Northeast India, primarily concentrated in Manipur, with significant populations also found in Assam and Nagaland. Recognized as a Scheduled Tribe under the Constitution of India, the Rongmei possess a rich cultural heritage, distinct customs, and vibrant traditions.¹ They share deep similarities with their kindred tribes of Zeme, Liangmai, and Inpui, who collectively form the larger Zeliangrong socio-cultural grouping.²
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| Pic: Luh chung gonmei (Credit: Asiana Gonmei) |
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History: Migration, Identity, and Resistance
The name 'Rongmei' is derived from two words: 'RONG' meaning 'south' and 'MEI' meaning 'people'. This nomenclature reflects their historical settlement in the southern portion of the vast Zeliangrong country, leading those living in this area to identify themselves as 'southerners'.³
Migration Theory and the Makhel Exodus:
The village of Makhel holds a pivotal place in the oral history of numerous Naga tribes, including the Angami, Chakhesang, Mao, Maram, Pochury, Poumai, Rengma, Thangal, and Zeliangrong. It is widely believed to be a village of common origin and a significant point of dispersal during their ancient migrations to their respective habitats. This historical narrative is corroborated by the existence of a stone megalith of dispersion, Tamraratu, located in the present-day Mao village of Makhel.⁴
As noted by T.C. Hodson in 1911, "At Makhel is to be seen a stone now erect which Marks the place from which the common ancestor (of the Nagas) emerged from the earth. Makhel is regarded as the centre from where the migration took p
From Makhel, the Zeliangrong ancestors journeyed westward, temporarily settling at Ramting Kabin, which translates to "Old squeezed land" (Ram = land/village, Ting = old, and Kabin = squeezed). They then moved across the densely forested western spur of Mt. Essau. Zeme legends also recount their departure from Makhel to Nrimrengdi, and then to Ramting Kabin, located near Chawang Phungning.⁶
Their migration continued to Chawang Phungning (also called Gwang Phungning), where the concept of a 'Chawang' or 'Gwang' (king or chief) is said to have developed, suggesting the formation of early political structures. Many ritual hymns reference the prosperity of Chawang Phungning, which is identified with the present-day village of Oklong in northern Manipur. From here, some migrants moved northeast, eventually reaching Makuilongdi.⁷
Makuilongdi: The Cradle of Zeliangrong Culture:
The Zeliangrong ancestors ultimately settled in Makuilongdi (or Nkuilongdi), meaning "Big round mountain." This settlement became a significant cultural center. Many Liangmai lineages trace their origins to Chawang Phungning, which was a main village within a cluster of settlements that formed Makuilongdi. As people migrated in groups, separate settlements were established, with Makuilongdi becoming a central hub. The abundant land, forest, and water in this mountainous region provided ample sustenance, leading to prosperity. Makuilongdi evolved from a small village into a cluster of hamlets established for shifting cultivation, extending its territorial influence far and wide. A polity under a chief developed, religious beliefs and social customs flourished, and clans and lineages expanded. From this vibrant center, several migration teams were dispatched to establish new villages in various directions, driven by the search for food, shelter, and fertile land.⁸
Exodus from Makuilongdi:
Legends attribute a sudden mass exodus from Makuilongdi to a divine warning. The people, engrossed in continuous Tarang ki/kai ceremonial house rituals and celebrations throughout a single year, allegedly violated the law of nature and their lunar agricultural calendar, becoming solely absorbed in merrymaking. Suddenly, cicada insects reportedly flew into the village, shrilly announcing the end of the lunar year. Shocked and horrified, the people made a quick exodus from Makuilongdi, scattering in different directions.⁹
Makuilongdi is widely regarded as the cradle of Zeliangrong culture, characterized by a well-knit society based on shifting agriculture and an organized polity. The language spoken there was akin to the present-day Liangmai dialect. At Makuilongdi, two major clans, Pamei and Newmei, emerged, signified by two stone megaliths. Several other lineages traced their direct descent from Makuilongdi as sub-lineages of these two major clans. Scholars suggest that agricultural land pressure due to increasing population and disputes over chiefly succession might have also contributed to the exodus from Makuilongdi.¹⁰
The Rongmei Migration:
The third son of Nguiba, Rembangbe (pronounced Nriengbangbe in Zeme, Rengbangbou in Liangmai), led a large group of people from Makuilongdi towards the south. This group came to be known as Marongmei or Rongmei, meaning "dwellers of the fallow lands" and "people of the Southern region," reflecting their migratory path and eventual settlement area. This group was noted for its adventurous spirit and wide dispersal.¹¹
These migrants settled at Kajinglong, now a Liangmai village, for many generations. Many Rongmei and Puimei lineages trace their origins to Kajinglong, which became another sub-center for Zeliangrong migration to the southern region. The settlement history of numerous Rongmei and Puimei villages points to Kajinglong as their original native village. These adventurous groups moved out of Kajinglong, founding many villages still occupied by their descendants in the trans-Irang basin of the present-day Tamenglong District of Manipur. The migration occurred in small groups, often consisting of two clans, who founded new villages. Later, they were joined by relatives and clansmen. The Rongmei migration continued for centuries, extending up to the confines of the Chin Hills and Mizoram in the Tuivai (Duigai) valley. The Rongmei eventually migrated both to the East and West of the Barak and Irang basins, reaching as far as the Cachar and Imphal Valleys.¹²
Geographical Distribution
The Rongmei are primarily concentrated in the three states of Manipur, Assam, and Nagaland in Northeast India. Their ancestral lands are largely located in Tamenglong District (including Noney district) of Manipur and its contiguous hill slopes extending into Assam and Nagaland. Over time, some Rongmei have also settled in adjacent plains and valley regions.¹³
Manipur: Most Rongmei settlements in Manipur are concentrated in Tamenglong District (including Noney district) and contiguous areas such as Jiribam, Kangvai subdivision of Churachandpur, Kangchup Geljang, Bungte Chiru, and Tadubi subdivision of Senapati District (including Kangpokpi district). There are also significant Rongmei settlements in the Imphal, Bishnupur, and Thoubal areas, reflecting their dispersal into the plains.¹⁴
Assam: In Assam, the Rongmei primarily reside in Cachar district, with smaller populations in Dima Hasao District, Karbi Anglong District, and Hailakandi District. Most Rongmei villages and urban colonies in Cachar are concentrated in Lakhipur subdivision and around Silchar town. There is at least one Rongmei village under Hailakandi district, and Rongmei villages/urban colonies are also found in Haflong town of Dima Hasao district.¹⁵
Nagaland: In Nagaland, the Rongmei are concentrated in Dimapur, Jalukie, and Kohima. Most of the Rongmei settlements in Dimapur and Kohima are within urban areas, indicating a trend of urbanization among the tribe.¹⁶
The term Rongmei explicitly means "the southerners," referencing their traditional settlement south of the larger Zeliangrong territory.¹⁷
Clans
The Rongmei society is organized around several major clans, the primary ones being Gonmei, Kamei, Gangmei, and Rwangmei (or Longmei). Each clan possesses a totem, which serves as a symbol or emblem and dictates specific food taboos, often involving an animal, bird, tree, or plant. For instance, the totem of the Gonmei clan is the Roingao bird, for Kamei it is Ahuina (green pigeon), for Gangmei it is the Tiger, and for Rwangmei it is the white pumpkin/dog.¹⁸
Each major clan is further subdivided into a number of lineages, which act as socially binding intermediary units between the family and the broader clan.
Gonmei/Golmei clan includes lineages such as Gonthangmei, Gondaimei, Remmei/Riamei, Meiringmei, Dangmei, Panmei/Palmei, and Thaimei.
Kamei clan comprises Pamei, Phaomei, Siangongmei, Ngaomei, Khandangmei, Malangmei, Kamson, and Daimei.
Gangmei clan has lineages like Kamang Gangmei, Pheiga Gangmei, Sidou Gangmei, Jukhao Gangmei, Goijaichang Gangmei, Taokhondai Gangmei, and Pongring Gangmei.
Notably, the Rwangmei clan does not have specific recorded lineages in the provided information.
The Gonmei/Newmei and Kamei/Pamei clans are believed to be older within the Rongmei, mirroring the distinction of Newmai and Pamai in Liangmai, and Newme/Hau and Pame/Heu in Zeme. Marriage within the same clan or sub-clan across the Zeliangrong group is generally discouraged, upholding exogamous marriage practices.¹⁹
Rebellion and Freedom Struggle
Rongmei territory faced British conquest in the 19th century. In 1891, the British imposed a house tax on the people of Tamenglong. The Rongmei staunchly refused to pay any tax from 1891 to 1894, demonstrating early defiance. In response, C.L. Crawford, the Assistant Political Agent of Manipur, resorted to force to collect the tax from the Tamenglong hills in 1894. This four-year period of Rongmei defiance and its consequences played a significant role in arousing a sense of national consciousness among the Rongmei people.²⁰
Eventually, under the charismatic leadership of Haipou Jadonang and his spiritual successor Rani Gaidinliu, the Rongmei launched a significant rebellion against British rule in the 1930s. This uprising gave considerable momentum and garnered widespread support for the vision of "Naga Raj" (self-rule). The Government of India has officially recognized Rani Gaidinliu as one of the most prominent freedom fighters from the Northeast India region, honoring her contributions to the independence movement.²¹
Economy and Craftsmanship
The Rongmei are primarily agriculturists, with jhum cultivation (shifting cultivation) being a particularly common practice, adapted to their hilly environment. Beyond agriculture, Rongmei artisans are highly skilled in various traditional crafts. They excel in bamboo work, wood carving, blacksmithing, and pottery. These skills enable them to produce a wide array of essential and decorative items, including bamboo baskets, mats, shields, and various tools, which are manufactured in abundance for both utilitarian and trade purposes.²²
Notable People
The Rongmei tribe has produced several notable individuals who have made significant contributions in various fields:
Alana Golmei: A prominent social activist.
Grace Dangmei: A celebrated footballer.
Gaikhangam Gangmei: Former Deputy Chief Minister of Manipur.
Gangmumei Kamei: A distinguished historian.
Haipou Jadonang: A political leader and founder of the Heraka religious movement, who led the early resistance against British rule.
Jiangam Kamei: A talented singer and songwriter.
Meijinlung Kamson: A former Union Minister of State in the Indian government.
Rani Gaidinliu: A revered freedom fighter and recipient of the Padma Bhushan, a high civilian award in India, known for her leadership against the British.
Rachunliu (Chun) G. Kamei: A specialist in the amphibians of India, contributing to scientific research.²³
Festivals: Gaan-Ngai
The Gaan-Ngai festival is the most significant post-harvest festival celebrated annually by the Rongmei, typically between December and January. Its date follows the lunar calendar, specifically observed on the 13th day of the Wakching or Gaan Ngai buh month. This festival is a profound religious and cultural event celebrated to worship the Supreme God Haipou Tingkao Ragwang, expressing gratitude for a bountiful harvest and seeking blessings for the coming year.²⁴ Among Naga tribes, the Rongmei are particularly renowned for their colorful dances and elaborate traditional attire displayed during this festival, making it a visually spectacular and culturally rich celebration.²⁵
Contemporary Identity and Digital Presence
In the modern era, the Rongmei, like other Naga tribes, are increasingly engaging with digital platforms to preserve, promote, and express their cultural identity. While comprehensive digital data on all Naga tribes' social media presence is still developing, a growing number of community groups, cultural organizations, and individuals are utilizing platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube to share traditional songs, dances, festival celebrations, and historical narratives. This digital engagement helps in cultural transmission among younger generations and creates awareness globally. Online forums and specialized websites, such as the Rongmei Encyclopedia blog, serve as valuable repositories for historical accounts, folklore, and cultural information, often curated by community members themselves.²⁶
Furthermore, academic and cultural institutions are increasingly involved in digitally documenting Naga cultures. Initiatives like the "Surveying the Nagas" event by the Pitt Rivers Museum reflect ongoing efforts to research, exhibit, and make accessible historical and contemporary data about Naga peoples, bridging traditional ethnography with modern digital archives.²⁷ This digital push contributes to both cultural revitalization within the community and broader academic understanding of their rich heritage.
Notes
"The Constitution (Scheduled Tribes): Order, 1950," Ministry of Law and Justice (India), accessed July 20, 2025,
https://legislative.gov.in/sites/default/files/The%20Constitution%20%28Scheduled%20Tribes%29%20Order%2C%201950.pdf G. K. Ghosh and Shukla Ghosh, Women of Manipur (APH, 1997), 4.
"The History of the Rongmei Migration," Rongmei Encyclopedia (WordPress blog), July 23, 2017, accessed July 20, 2025,
https://rongmeiencyclopedia.wordpress.com/2017/07/23/the-history-of-the-rongmei-migration/ Ibid.
T. C. Hodson, The Naga Tribes of Manipur (London: Macmillan and Co., 1911), 1-5.
"The History of the Rongmei Migration," Rongmei Encyclopedia.
Ibid.
Ibid.
Ibid.
Ibid.
Ibid.
Ibid.
Ibid. (Note: This is a general reference; specific population numbers for each state or district would require additional census data).
Ibid.
Ibid.
Ibid.
G. K. Ghosh and Shukla Ghosh, Women of Manipur, 4.
"Traditional social system of the Zeliangrong: Part 2," E-pao.net, accessed July 20, 2025,
http://e-pao.net/epSubPageExtractor.asp?src=manipur.Ethnic_Races_Manipur.Traditional_social_system_of_the_Zeliangrong_Part_2 Ibid.
Puanthanh Gangmei, "The Struggle And Plight Of The Rongmei Tribe During The British Era," Rihpyan, November 19, 2017, accessed July 20, 2025,
https://rihpyan.wordpress.com/2017/11/19/the-struggle-and-plight-of-the-rongmei-tribe-during-the-british-era/ G. K. Ghosh, Tribals and Their Culture in Assam, Meghalaya, and Mizoram (Ashish Publishing House, 1992), 150-155; Kusumlata Nayyar, Rani Gaidinliu (Ocean Books, 2002), 90-110.
"The Rongmei Naga," Archived from https://www.google.com/search?q=poumainaga.com, accessed July 20, 2025,
https://web.archive.org/web/20140427005532/http://poumainaga.com/wiki/poumai-naga-tribe/ "Rachunliu (Chun) G. Kamei, Ph.D.," Global Wildlife Conservation, accessed July 20, 2025,
https://www.globalwildlife.org/team/rachunliu-chun-g-kamei-ph-d/ "Gaan Ngai," Wikipedia, accessed July 20, 2025,
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gaan_Ngai Ibid.
"The History of the Rongmei Migration," Rongmei Encyclopedia.
Pitt Rivers Museum, "Surveying the Nagas: Historical and Contemporary Views of Naga Peoples and Cultures," University of Oxford, accessed July 20, 2025,
https://www.prm.ox.ac.uk/event/surveying-the-nagas
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