By: NANDKISHOR YADAV, ASHOK KUMAR YADAV
This study examines the traditional religious beliefs, rituals, and cultural life of the Rongmei Naga tribe living in Manipur state. It aims to understand the major religious rituals and traditional festivals that the Rongmei tribe has observed since ancient times, as well as their sociocultural and spiritual significance. The study finds that the Rongmei tribe’s traditional festivals are closely linked to seasonal changes and the agricultural cycle, helping to maintain balance in the community’s economic, social, and religious lives. Each traditional festival holds deep sociocultural and spiritual significance, reinforcing love, peace, harmony, collective unity, and protecting the community from evil forces and spirits. The spread of Christianity in recent times has significantly impacted the traditional religious beliefs of the Rongmei Naga tribe, leading many tribal members to convert to Christianity. However, a large part of the Rongmei tribe continues to maintain its traditional religious beliefs and ritual practices, which remain especially important in their lives and help preserve these traditions. This study uses a purely qualitative research methodology, primarily based on primary sources. Data were collected through fieldwork, interviews, and participant observation. Additionally, secondary sources were used as needed to enhance the study.
