CHA-KHE-SANG: A Unique Naga Tribe

Z. K. Pahrü Pou

Formerly known as the eastern Angami, the present Chakhesang is one of the most progressive and remarkable tribes of the Naga families. The three syllables: Cha-Khe-Sang represents Chokri, Kheza and Sangtam people respectively. The recognition of Sangtam as a separate tribe did not disturb the original word – Chakhesang- till today. It is obvious that the pioneers of the formation of Chakhesang tribe had in mind the existence of diverse sub-tribes (communities) within it. No other Naga tribe matches Chakhesang tribe in its composition interweaved with many communities. It is not just Kheza and Chokri people who are Chakhesangs. Along with them are the smaller communities like Poumai (Sapuh) predominantly settling in four villages under Razeba Range and in Pfutsero town. There are some Sumi (Sema) villages which fall under Chakhesang tribe. In some Chakhesang villages, one also will find Rengmas and pochuris. Therefore, Chakhesang is a conglomeration of Kheza, Chokri, Poumai, Sumi, Pochuri and Rengma. One can also trace the origin of few Tangkhul families as in Jessami. This made Chakhesang a unique tribe among the Naga family. With diversity in its social composition, there are different dialects spoken among the Chakhesang people. Apart from English and Nagamese, naturally Chakhesang people could easily converse in other tribes’ dialects/languages. They use Angami’s Tenyidie Bible and Tenyidie Hymn Book as official language in the Church. It provides them easy means of communication with the Angamis. Many Chakhesangs are conversant with Poumai and Mao dialect too. Others are equally comfortable with the dialect of Sumis, Rengmas and Tangkhuls. With all these advantages, it is not a surprise that this tribe has rich traditional folklores, songs and other traditional practices. The other uniqueness of this tribe is its geographical location. It has its border with the land of Mao (Tobufii, Shajouba, Chowainu), Poumai (Tunggam, Tungjoy, Liyai, Katafiimai, Laii), Tangkhul (Jessami area), Sumi (Satakha-Poghoboto Area), Angami (Kedima-Chakabama area) and Pochury. Hence, it has easy access to many neighbouring tribes both in Manipur and Nagaland. With all of the above privileges, Chakhesang people are progressing in all spheres of life: social, political and religious life. Being neighbours to many tribes and diverse in its social composition, and conversant in many dialects, they are readily accepted by others. This, apart from hard labour, is the reason why we find many Chakhesang leaders in the churches and in civil society. They are also contributing many good leaders to the state politics. They are simple yet possess great sense of humour and love cracking jokes. Majority of Chakhesang people are hard working and economically self reliant. Chakhesang tribe might at the top when it comes to mixed marriages with other tribes. One can look to this tribe as the future model of Naga society. The tapestry of various social groups into a single tribe demands from Chakhesang leaders to be broad-minded, sensitive and accommodating for all the constituent communities (both in the Church and society). A leader with a narrow-mind and self-interest can easily create division and bring disunity within the tribe. A dynamic and thoughtful leader of Chakhesang will also become a good leader in greater Naga society. For the other Naga tribes, we need to learn from Chakhesang people to live together in unity in the midst of many differences. Chakhesang people on the other hand must work hard for harmony and unity of all Naga families. If it can bring unity with all its neighbouring tribes, i.e., Poumai, Mao, Angami, Sumi, Rengma, and Tangkhul, then it will be easy for the whole Naga families to come together and live in unity. It is our fervent hope that this blessed tribe will strive for the betterment of not only of its tribe but also for the whole Naga society.