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Abstract

The paper attempts to delve into the warfare techniques of the natives of Northeast India with special reference to Kabuis of Manipur. Like other natives of Northeast, the Kabuis, too, lived in the villages and on the slope of the highest hills on the ground of defence and security. Their village is built in such way that the no one could not enter and attack the village. It is the Khangtans, senior members of Khangchu who at the cost of their lives took the responsibility of defence of the village from enemies’ attack. However, they are under the strict supervision of Pei, supreme military body of the village. The main weapons used by the Kabuis are spear (Bui), dao (Bang) and also shields. They are expert in the use of spear and aimed at surprising their enemies, and after throwing the spear, came to close quarters with the dao. In fighting, those who do not have shields use thick cloth folded round the abdomen for safety. Based on prediction of omen as per customs they decide to go or not to go for a war. After successful raid they return home and observe Rihshang Tuna Kabaomei ritual for whole day and night with war songs. Now, the Kabui people observe war rituals in Rih-ngai festival without violence only for plentiful harvest of the village.

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How to Cite
Kabui, D. K. B., & Singh, D. O. R. (2019). Traditional Warfare Techniques Of The Tribes Of Northeast: The Kabuis Of Manipur. History Research Journal, 5(2), 1-9. Retrieved from https://www.thinkindiaquarterly.org/index.php/hrj/article/view/8424