Introduction / History

The Tangsa tribes are indigenous peoples living in India’s northeastern Assam and Arunachal Pradesh states. Some live in Myanmar. They are part of the larger Tibeto-Burmese ethnic family. Long ago, they migrated from China’s Yunnan Province through Myanmar to their current location. One of their subgroups, the Yougli Tangsas, speak Tangshang Naga.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Modernization has provided new opportunities for some, but most remain subsistence farmers. They grow and eat rice, millet, maize, and vegetables. Those who live in the plains grow wet rice. Men hunt and tend to livestock while the women weave clothes, scarves, and bags to sell. They also make and sell baskets and bamboo crafts.

They enjoy singing and dancing during festivals. Festivals include Moh, a harvest festival celebrated from May 9-15 each year. Mongbarsa marks the arrival of new crops. During the Harong Festival, Tangsas hold a ritual to honor and protect the land and forests.

Tangsa clothing is colorful and symbolic. Women wear a long top, a skirt, and a waistcloth. Men wear a lungi and a jacket.

Clans are significant to the Tangsas. One cannot marry within one's clan to protect oneself from genetic issues. Tangsas have joint households to allow for extended families to live together. Their social structure is determined by a tribal council, governed by a chief.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Tangsas traditionally believed in Wihu, an earth goddess. They sometimes performed animal sacrifices to the spirits. Today, they are primarily Christian, mainly Baptist, but marginalism is common. Tibetan Buddhism has made inroads among the Tikhak and Yongkuk subgroups.

What Are Their Needs?

Though many Tangsas have managed to get beyond subsistence farming, most cannot get the education they need to find high-paying jobs. They need more education. Medical care escapes those who live in remote locations.

Prayer Items

Pray for revival in Yougli Tangsa villages and churches.
Pray that soon, Yougli Tangsa disciples will make disciples of Tibetan Buddhists.
Pray for them to understand that only the Lord Almighty can provide for their physical and spiritual needs.
Pray for hundreds to share Christ locally and internationally.

Scripture Prayers for the Tangsa Yougli in India.

References

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