Day 9 of the "virtual (digital) tour" of places known for unusual customs, practices, mysterious phenomena. This post is part of the A to Z Challenge and Blogchatter A2Z 2026
They have distinctive hairstyles and beautifully patterned traditional clothes that set them apart. They are also known for their sober nature and strong sense of aesthetics.
Their society follows a strict patriarchal and patrilineal system.
ANCESTRAL HOMELANDS
The Idu Mishmi primarily inhabit the districts of Dibang Valley, Lower Dibang Valley, and Lohit in Arunachal Pradesh. Across the border, related groups live in Zayu county in Tibet, where they are classified differently by the Chinese authorities.
Their origins go back to migrations from Tibet into India through the Dibang and Lohit valleys. The tribe is divided into around 76 clans, some of which can trace their lineage back nearly 28 generations.
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| Idu Mishmi Women of Dibang Valley District. Photo credit: Arunachal Pradesh Indigenous Wisdom & Cultural Practices |
POPULATION
The overall Mishmi population is around 35,000. Within Arunachal Pradesh, their numbers are roughly 30,000. Across the border in China, related groups such as the Deng (including Darang and Geman) are much smaller in number.
LIVELIHOOD
Agriculture is their main livelihood. Weaving is a highly refined skill among women, who make intricate handloom designs. Basketry, practised by men, makes use of bamboo and cane, materials found abundantly in their surroundings.
Over the years, education has opened new doors. Many Idu Mishmi now work in government services or take up contract and supply work.
QUIRKY CUSTOMS
Tiger as brother
Perhaps their most striking belief is their relationship with the tiger. In Idu mythology, humans and tigers share a common mother. In other words, the tiger is considered a brother.
Killing a tiger is therefore seen as an act equivalent to murder, believed to bring misfortune and disease. Interestingly, this belief has helped protect wildlife in the Dibang Valley, without the need for governments to enforce any regulations.
Marriage practices
Traditionally, the Idu Mishmi practised polygamy. Some of their marriage customs may seem unusual today. A man could marry his stepmother (provided she was not his mother’s sister) after his father’s death. It was also acceptable to marry the widow of a deceased brother. These practices were tied to social and economic continuity within the family.
Death rituals
The deceased are buried along with their belongings. So, sometimes there is a need for large burial spaces or “rooms” to accommodate both the person and their possessions. This has often been compared to ancient burial traditions elsewhere in the world.
Birth taboos
Pregnancy is surrounded by strict taboos. Couples must avoid certain actions like imitating animal sounds or killing snakes as these are believed to affect the unborn child.
ROLE OF IGU
The spiritual life of the Idu Mishmi revolves around the Igu, their priest. The Igu commands immense respect in their society. It is believed that they possess a tiger spirit, which enables them to heal, perform rituals, and guide both the living and the dead.
(Information sources: Sanctuary Nature Foundation, Government of Arunachal Pradesh, Wikipedia)
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