Female Igu( Shaman)performing during one of the Reh celebrations at Anelih

During my visit to Anelih in Ahi Valley, one of the most popular villages in Dibang Valley district of Arunachal Pradesh, I got an opportunity to witness an Individual Family Reh celebration.
The Idus believe that they are the sons and daughters of the Divine Mother 'Nani Intaya' and Reh is performed and celebrated for wealth, prosperity, good health, well being and to keep their bond of brotherhood alive by getting the blessing of divine mother Nani Intaya.
I also witnessed the performances of the Igus. In every tribal society, the Shaman plays an important role. The Shaman is considered as a healer and the mediator between the world of the humans and the spirits. In Idu community, these shamans are called Igus. Igu is also considered as soothsayer and custodian of cultural tradition and hold the most important place in the Idu Mishmi culture.
Sadly, the number of Igus is decreasing and the younger generation is not interested in learning the art. The influence of modernity or modern education could be one of the reasons.
Female Igus are also found in many places. But compared to males, the number of female Igus is very less or negligible. Today, the number of these Igus is decreasing in entire Dibang Valley and Lower Dibang valley districts.
According to a state’s popular daily, there are only 80 Igus remaining in Idu community, out of which only 43 are fully equipped Igus. The decline of Igus will ultimately result in the vanishing of the ancient sacred oral narratives and knowledge of the community.
I was curiously watching and enjoying the performance of these Igus led by a female Igu. But in my mind, the only thought that was coming to my mind again and again was- for how long these Igus will survive!
Will the new generation learn the art? Will new generation males/females equip themselves so that saga of the Igus continues? I didn't have the answer for this!

[@riyatapo1002]

Proud of my culture idu mishmi tribe

[@mariagogoi9266]

Kesa po Di nuchi Naga 😑

[@GAmeR9684]

Nice job,but not igu, say ldu.

[@gapuu]

The Priest is Called Igu !!