The Yimchunger are a prominent Naga tribe whose traditional homeland spans the Tuensang and Kiphire districts in the state of Nagaland, India, extending into the western regions of Myanmar (Burma).¹
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Etymology
The name Yimchunger translates to "the ones who have reached their place of choice," reflecting a narrative of purposeful settlement.² The tribe's name is rendered in various forms, including Yimchungru, Yimchungru-Naga, Yimchungre, Yanchunger, and Yimchungrü. They are also known as the Yachumi (or Yatsumi/Yachimi), a name influenced by the Sema language.³ The accurate indigenous term for the tribe is Yimkhiungru. Neighboring tribes refer to them differently: the Khiamniungans call them Mongtsohai, the Changs use Yamshong, and the Sangtam refer to them as Yachungre.⁴
History
According to Yimchunger oral tradition, the tribe's origins trace back to a village named Moru, from where they subsequently moved to Jure (or Chiru) village.⁵ Historical accounts suggest that the Yimchungers and the Khiamungans migrated together as a single group from Upper Burma in one wave, eventually separating into two distinct groups at the Moru village.⁶
Migration Narrative
Like many Naga tribes, the Yimchunger possess no written historical records, as they did not traditionally have their own script. Therefore, their history, particularly concerning their origin and migration, relies heavily on narrated accounts passed down through generations. It is believed that the Yimchungers may have evolved from nomadic tribes, traversing various regions before finally settling in their current locations. Their oral history suggests an origin from Thailand, from where their migration route led them through Burma (Myanmar), then into India.⁷
Their journey within India is recounted as a series of settlements: from Burma, they arrived at Moru, then moved to Chiru, followed by Longyang, and subsequently to Thunyim Kiulong (literally "village of fifty") within Indian territory. From Thunyim Kiulong, they proceeded to Tuphung Kiulong (near Bokphur village) and then to Thsunkioso village (presently Thonoknyu village). The migration continued to Kemiphu, located on the banks of the Thurak Ke, popularly known as the Zungki river. Finally, they reached Tukhea Khup village, situated below the present Wapher/Wungphung village on the banks of the Zungki river.⁸
At each of these settlement points, only a portion of the group would venture forth in search of more fertile land and natural resources to sustain their growing needs, leaving behind the remaining population to establish permanent residences in those villages.⁹
A pivotal discovery occurred while they were settled at Tukhea Khup. During a fishing trip at the confluence of the Yayi and Zungki (Thurak Ke) rivers, a group found burnt charcoal and partly burnt firewood floating down from the Yayi river. This discovery sparked curiosity about other human settlements upstream along the Yayi river. Consequently, a large segment of the population embarked on an expedition in that direction. They eventually arrived at a place exhibiting signs of human activity, such as cleared jungle for cultivation. Having found evidence of other human presence, they named this place Yimkhiungto, meaning "found it." Over time, this location came to be known as Yimkhiung or Yimchung, and its inhabitants were referred to as Yimkhiungru or Yimchungru. This village is known today as Yimchung Awun (meaning "Yimchung Old"), and it was here that the group first acquired a collective identity as a community or tribe.¹⁰
The term "Yimchungru" or "Yimkhiungru" literally translates to "the finders." The name "Yimchunger" is considered a mispronunciation of "Yimkhiungru." The inhabitants who remained at earlier settlements referred to the Yimchung Awun settlers as the Yimkhiungrus or Yimchungrus. Over time, this name was diluted to Yimchungers, Yachongre, Yachumi, and Yamshong, particularly as they were referred to by neighboring tribes, especially the early Chang Scouts and Dobashis who accompanied British explorers.¹¹
The Yimkhiungrus resided at Yimchung Awun for an extended period. As their population expanded, a group ventured north to establish a new village called 'Langa,' located below the present Kuthur village. Prominent individuals such as Lakiumong, Zungyimkiu, and Khushang from the Jangkhiunger clan, along with Pathong and Hemong from the Janger clan, and Sangpun from the Khiphur clan, settled at Langa. This group of Yimkhiungrus at Langa village were known for their robust physique and as fierce warriors, daring to contend with spirits and natural calamities like floods, fire, and storms to test their strength and endurance. However, despite their bravery, internal conflicts for supremacy arose, preventing them from living in harmony. Consequently, they eventually dispersed, leaving Langa village desolate. The remains of Langa village still exist today, serving as a testament to the once-inhabited settlement of hardworking and formidable Yimkhiungru warriors. It was from this village that the Yimkhiungrus further scattered and dispersed in almost all directions. Some groups moved towards the present-day Chang land, while others went to Sumi, Ao, Sangtam, Konyak, Phom, and Khiamniungan areas. Nevertheless, a larger portion moved southward to establish various villages in the present-day Yimchungru-inhabited areas, extending from Heruppong to Mount Saramati and even further into Myanmar, speaking diverse dialects such as Langa, Tukhi, Mokhok, Chir, Longphur, and Phunung.¹²
In those ancient times, each Yimchunger village functioned as a distinct administrative entity, independent of any other authority, and possessing a sovereign identity. Governance was vested in the 'Kiulongthsuru' (the founder of the village, who served as the Headman), aided by village elders. All villages, regardless of size, held equal respect concerning their rights and privileges. The concept of a unified "tribe" beyond one's immediate village territory was largely absent, leading to the prevalence of headhunting for trophies and glory. However, with the advent of Christianity and the arrival of modern civilization, a consciousness to live united and in harmony as one people, one community, began to dawn upon the Yimchungrus.¹³
Culture
The Yimchunger people maintain strong ties to their cultural identity, particularly evident in their deep love and passion for agriculture. This intrinsic connection is reflected in the hymns and rhythmic beats of their traditional songs, which are often devoted to the craft of cultivation.¹⁴
Their musical instruments are relatively simple, comprising log drums, trumpets, and flutes, similar to those found among the Angami tribe.¹⁵
The traditional attire of the Yimchungers is notably vibrant and elaborate. It includes colorful cane-made headgear, often adorned with human hair and bird feathers, symbolizing status, bravery, or specific achievements. Both Yimchunger males and females possess a wide array of traditional dresses, intricately decorated with diverse hues and patterns. They also wear a variety of traditional ornaments, which further enhance their ceremonial and daily wear.¹⁶
The Government of Nagaland has played a crucial role in providing platforms and resources for the Yimchungers to effectively showcase their traditions, culture, and craftsmanship to tourists. Over the past decade, a surge in tourism in the region has significantly propelled efforts to preserve the cultures of its various tribes. The Yimchungers have been at the forefront of these preservation initiatives, largely due to their dedicated festivals, which receive support from the Naga State. The Yimchungers are also key contributors to the Hornbill Festival in Nagaland, India. This prominent annual festival serves as a grand showcase of the culture and customs from the diverse tribes of the Naga region. Highlights of the festival often include a wide array of tribal dances performed by different Naga groups, captivating spin top demonstrations by the Yimchunger, and soul-stirring folk songs. Given that most Yimchungers and other Naga tribes rely on agriculture as their primary source of income, the festival also features live harvesting demonstrations, accompanied by traditional harvest songs and other cultural performances. A particularly intriguing aspect of the festival is the demonstration of a traditional way of finding a bride, providing visitors with a glimpse into their social customs.¹⁷
Metemneo Festival
Metemneo is the traditional five-day harvest festival of the Yimchunger tribe, though it is regarded as a solemn occasion. It is celebrated after the millet crop is harvested, typically in the second week of August, marking a period of deep gratitude and reflection for the community.¹⁸
The ceremonies of Metemneo are officially inaugurated by the village elder, khiungpu. The five days of the festival are dedicated to a series of communal activities and rituals:
During Metemneo, the Yimchungers offer prayers for the souls of those who are expected to pass away in the coming year, a unique aspect reflecting their spiritual beliefs about life and death. They invite friends and relatives to their homes, and gifts are exchanged as a token of goodwill and strengthened bonds. The festival is also a significant time for engagements between young boys and girls, highlighting its role in social and marital arrangements within the community.¹⁹ A unique belief among the Yimchungers is that males possess six souls, while females are believed to have five souls.²⁰
Notes
Ved Prakash, Encyclopaedia Of North-east India Vol# 5 (Atlantic, 2007), 2137-2138.
Aglaja Stirn and Peter Van Ham, The hidden world of the Naga: living traditions in Northeast India and Burma (Prestel, 2003), 41.
Ibid.
M Alemchiba, A brief historical account of Nagaland (Naga Institute of Culture, 1970), 21.
Ibid.
Ved Prakash, Encyclopaedia Of North-east India Vol# 5, 2137-2138.
"Source: Archives of Arts and Culture Department. Government of Nagaland," Government of Nagaland, accessed July 20, 2025. (Note: The original text indicated a missing full citation for this source).
Ibid.
Ibid.
Ibid.
Ibid.
Ibid.
Ibid.
G. Ashin Panmei, "Record R65012," University of Cambridge, accessed July 20, 2025. (Note: Specific content from this record would strengthen the citation).
Ved Prakash, Encyclopaedia Of North-east India Vol# 5, 2137-2138.
"Yimkhiungrutruk," Yimkhiungrutruk.org, accessed July 20, 2025,
. WildFilmsIndia, "Traditional way of finding a bride showcase by Yimchunger Tribe," WildFilmsIndia via YouTube, January 7, 2014,
(Note: A specific YouTube URL, if available, would replace "xxxxxxxx"). "Festivals: Metemneo," District Administration, Kiphire District, accessed October 24, 2011,
. Ibid.
Ibid. (Note: The original text indicated a missing citation for the belief about souls).
