Phom Morung

History & Origins

The Phom Naga tribe inhabits the Longleng district. According to tribal accounts, the Phoms migrated into the region along two routes—one through Yingnyiüshang and the other through Longkhamhong. The Longleng district itself was officially inaugurated on January 24, 2004.

Culture & Ceremonies

The Phom tribe is traditionally known for its peace-loving values. It was the last Naga tribe to formally abandon the practice of headhunting, doing so on June 6, 1952. Since then, the community has observed “Phom Day” annually with a celebratory fair. Other important ceremonies of the Phom Naga tribe are Monyiü festival (Spring festival), and Bangmo festival (Harvest festival).

Our Traditions, Attire and Ornaments

One of the tribe’s key traditional attires is the Mekhala. The Owshih shüngnang is a wrap cloth worn by daughters of wealthy or high-status families, distinguished by the long dhüngpü—a hairy caterpillar motif symbolizing prestige, heritage, ancestral pride, and honor. The design has long been associated with dignity and noble lineage. Other important cultural symbols include hornbill feathers, the long dao (sword), horns of stag, deer, mithun, and buffalo, ivory, tiger’s teeth, the mimbab athen (men’s hat), and gongs.

Our Notable Legends and Folk Tales

The Phom Nagas believe that their socio-cultural and political awakening began at Mount Yingnyiüshang. They attribute the origins of their village governance, priesthood, clan structures, feasts, marriage customs, and social norms to their early settlement at Yingnyiü village. As a result, Mount Yingnyiüshang remains central to the tribe’s cultural and customary identity. According to tradition, Yingnyiüshang served as the meeting ground for the tiger men of the Phom, Konyak, Ao, and Chang tribes; it was where singing cicadas concluded their songs and where the souls of the departed touched the “forgetting leaf” to release memories of worldly life. The soul of a deceased child was believed to forget its longing for its mother after bathing in the Nyiübe Yong at the mountain. Children are named and songs are composed in its honor, including one that praises: “Even the morning sun salutes you on its entrance; the evening sun bids you farewell before making its exit.”