KISAMA — Gunsmithing, an intricate craft deeply
rooted in the traditions of the Konyak Naga community, is on vivid display at
the Craftscape section of the Hornbill Festival in Kisama.
Two skilled gunsmiths, Nyeiba Konyak (46) and Moba Konyak (53),
from Changlangshu village in Mon district, are showing live demonstrations of
crafting muzzle-loading guns — an age-old tradition that reflects the ingenuity
and resourcefulness of their community.
Speaking to Eastern Mirror, Nyeiba described the arduous and
intricate process of crafting the guns. Each part is customised, as materials
used for making the guns are not readily available in shops. From the smallest
parts like nails to scissors, everything item needs customisation because the
ones available in the market are not suitable, and this process is the most
time consuming.
The materials are sourced unconventionally from vehicle
parts like steering rods and other metals, which are strong enough to serve as
the gun barrels, he added.
“It takes at least two weeks to make one muzzle-loading gun
alongside other works. But if time is dedicated to work on it every day, we can
make three in a month,” Nyeiba said.
Instead of machines, they use traditional techniques of
fire-welding and shaping metals. Fire is better than machine as it can bring
out desired outcome and fit parts with precision, he added.
The duo noted that the rising cost of raw materials is a
growing challenge for their craft. Small components now cost INR 500, while
iron rods can cost INR 1000. “We get profit only if we make it on a full-time
basis,” Nyeiba said, emphasising that gunsmithing is a source of income for
them.
The duo learnt the art of making guns and gunpowder from
their parents and grandparents and takes pride in passing on the knowledge to
the younger generation.
“We train younger generations in the art of making guns
because this is the only we can preserve the age-old tradition,” Nyieba said.
However, the response from the younger generation is mixed.
While some youths show enthusiasm for learning the craft not just for
tradition’s sake but also as a source of livelihood, there are some who lack
interest in the craft.
Among the Konyaks, Changlangshu village is known for making
muzzle loading gun, Nyeiba claimed, adding that there are approximately 95
people still practicing the craft in the village.
The finished products are sold across Nagaland, Myanmar and
Arunachal Pradesh.
In addition to guns sold at INR 11,000 to INR 12,000 apiece,
the duo also crafts machetes, gunpowder, and other materials, which are
displayed and sold at the festival.
The origins of this gunsmithing tradition remain unclear,
but it is believed to have been a part of the Konyak heritage for generations,
and “it is important we carry this tradition for generations to come,” Nyeiba
said.
