Muklom tribe

The migration history of the Muklom sub-tribe, like that of the larger Tangsa community, can be traced back to the early centuries of the Common Era, with roots in the regions of present-day Myanmar and China. Over time, the Tangsa people migrated across the Patkai Range and settled in the areas of present-day Arunachal Pradesh and Assam, India. The Muklom sub-tribe, as a part of the broader Tangsa community, shares this migration history and has established itself in the Khimyang and Kharsang circles of Arunachal Pradesh.

The primary religion of the Muklom sub-tribe is Rangfrah, a revivalist movement of Tangsa traditional spirituality. Rangfrah was established as an alternative religious belief for those who were neither following Christian beliefs nor traditional Tangsa practices. In the Tangsa dialect, "Rangfrah" means "God," and the deity has been given a form similar to that of the Hindu god Shiva. A worshiping house called "Rangshom Him" has been built to house the Rangfrah idol and provide a space for followers to gather and offer their prayers. In other Tangsa dialects, the term for "God" takes on variants such as Rangwa and Rangkhothak. Traditionally, the Tangsa people rarely practiced religious rituals dedicated to a god. Instead, they invoked spirits through various means, seeking their benevolent influence or protection from malevolent activities. These rituals mostly involved offerings of animals, rice, rice-beer, eggs, and other items wrapped in leaves of a specific plant and placed at a sacred location unique to that ritual. In recent times, approximately half of the Muklom population has converted to Christianity. This shift has led to a blending of religious practices and beliefs within the community.

The Muklom sub-tribe is primarily found in the Khimyang and Kharsang circles of the Changlang district in Arunachal Pradesh, India. The region is characterized by its hilly terrain, lush forests, and the Patkai Range's eastern extension, which forms a natural border between India and Myanmar. The area's rich biodiversity and picturesque landscapes contribute to the unique way of life and cultural practices of the Muklom people.

The Muklom sub-tribe has a population of approximately 15,000 people, predominantly residing in the Khimyang and Kharsang circles of Arunachal Pradesh. As a part of the larger Tangsa community, the Muklom people share a common linguistic and cultural heritage with other Tangsa sub-groups. The population is primarily rural, with most people engaged in agriculture, animal husbandry, and traditional arts and crafts.

Education among the Muklom sub-tribe has been steadily improving over the years, with an increasing number of schools and educational institutions being established in the region. The government of Arunachal Pradesh, along with various non-governmental organizations, has undertaken several initiatives to promote education and literacy among the tribal communities, including the Muklom. Despite these efforts, challenges remain in terms of access to quality education, infrastructure, and resources, particularly in remote areas. However, the Muklom people, like other Tangsa sub-tribes, are gradually embracing modern education and its benefits, leading to better opportunities and improved socio-economic conditions.

The Muklom sub-tribe is known for its rich cultural heritage and vibrant festivals. The primary festival celebrated by the Muklom people is Mol, a harvest festival observed in the month of May. Moh-Mol marks the end of the agricultural season and is a time for the community to come together and celebrate their hard work and the blessings of a bountiful harvest. The festival is marked by traditional songs, dances, and feasting, as well as rituals and ceremonies related to agriculture and the worship of Rangfrah. Apart from Moh-Mol, the Muklom people also participate in various other regional and tribal festivals celebrated by the larger Tangsa community. These events provide an opportunity for the sub-tribes to come together, foster unity, and share their unique cultural practices and traditions.

The Muklom sub-tribe is renowned for its rich tradition of arts and crafts, which form an essential aspect of their cultural identity. The tribe's skilled craftsmen create various items of utility, such as local mekhelas (traditional skirts), hats, and coats, using their artistry and expertise. Hand weaving using traditional looms is one of the Muklom tribe's most important crafts. The local mekhelas are known for their intricate designs, vibrant colors, and unique weaving patterns and are popular among the female population of Arunachal Pradesh. In addition to textiles, the Muklom people also create baskets, mats, and headgears using thin strips of bamboo or cane. The tribe is also famous for their neckbands, necklaces, coats, lungis, and other accessories, which showcase the exceptional skill and creativity of their craftsmen. The arts and crafts of the Muklom sub-tribe are a testament to the community's talent and cultural heritage, providing a source of pride and income for its people. The Muklom sub-tribe of the Tangsa community is a vibrant and culturally rich group that has maintained its traditions while adapting to the modern world. Through their unique religious practices, festivals, arts and crafts, and focus on education, the Muklom people contribute significantly to the rich tapestry of tribal cultures in Arunachal Pradesh and India. The preservation and celebration of their cultural heritage is essential not only for the Muklom sub-tribe but also for the broader Tangsa community and the diverse ethnic groups that call India home.

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