A Naga warrior



The term Naga people refers to a conglomeration of many tribes inhabiting the North Eastern part of India who share similarities in their cultures and traditions. Some of the prominent Naga tribes are Angami, Ao, Chakhesang, Chang, Khiamniungan, Konyak, Kuki, Lotha, Pochury, Phom, Rengma, Sangtam, Sema, Yimchunger, Zeliang, etc.
There are 15 officially recognized tribes in the present State of Nagaland (a North Eastern Indian State bordering Myanmar). The other Naga Tribes can be found in the neighbouring states of Manipur, Assam, Arunachal Pradesh and even across the border in Myanmar. Some of these tribes are: Katcha, Laingmei, Mao, Anal, Maram, Nocte, Phom, Pochuri, Poumai, Rongmei, Tangkhul, Tangsa, Tutsa, Wancho and Zemei.
The word Naga has evolved from the word Nagna, which means naked. It is so because the Nagas are known by the paucity of their clothes. Some[who?] also say that the word Naga originated from Naga meaning Snake or king of snakes

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Skulls from headhunting days on display in Kohima

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