Thadou Tribe

About Thadou Tribe: 

• They are an indigenous people who live in the hill country adjacent to the Imphal Valley in the northeastern Indian state of Manipur.
• Other names: Chillya, Kuki, Kukihin, Teizang and Theruvan.
• Language: They speak Chin and Thado which belong to the Tibeto-Burman family of the Sino-Tibetan languages.
• The village chief's house is usually the largest dwelling within the village. Outside it there is a platform upon which men gather to discuss matters of importance and to mediate disputes.
• Economy: They practice subsistence activities include animal domestication, cultivation, hunting, and fishing. Jhum (slash-and-burn) agriculture is predominant. 
• Religious Beliefs: The god Pathen is believed by the Thadou to have created everything. He is also believed to be the ruler of the universe. Sacrifice is offered to Pathen for health or assistance in time of trouble. 
• Festival: The Hun-Thadou cultural festival is an annual celebration of this community which is celebrated at the arrival of the New Year.

Q1: Who are called ‘tribes’ in India? 

According to the Imperial Gazetteer of India, a tribe is a collection of families bearing a common name, speaking a common dialect, and occupying or professing to occupy a common territory. India is known as a Melting pot of tribes and races.

Source: Thadou Tribe Leaders, Delegates In "Historic" Convention Seek To Protect Distinct Identity