Socio-economic Importance of Mithun (Bos Frontalis) Among the Adi Tribes of Arunachal Pradesh, India

摘要

Mithun (60s frontalis) is regarded as a sacred semi-domesticated animal in the socio-economic life of the Adi tribes of Arunachal Pradesh. The Adis are one of the dynamic and vibrant indigenous communities of the state. They are known for their numerous festivals with rich culture and tradition. Every festival is related with the sacrifice of domestic animals. The festivals are the soul and essence of socio-cultural identity of the people. Mithun is also given as bride price and compensation according to verdict sentenced by Adi Bogum-Bokang Kebang (supreme judgement authority of Adi). The meat is popular in marriage functions, community feast and other important gatherings. It is sacrificed to appease the Gumin-Soyin (house God) to stay and bless the house. It is a means of the economic status of a family. Dotgang is a form of sacrifice of mithun at the time of death of a person. It is believed by Adis that if such sacrifice is made, it appease the soul of the dead and keep the soul away from hovering around restlessly. The paper attempts to highlight the significance of mithun in the Adi community in the context of the continuity of their culture.