THE PROCESS OF INPUI TRADITIONAL FISHING (INMON NGAA LANU): A CASE STUDY OF PUICHI OKTAN VILLAGE

(The article is written by Namaiba Riamroi , Research Scholar)

Abstract

This paper explores Inmon Ngaa Lanu, the traditional fishing practice of the Inpui Naga community in Puichi Oktan village, Manipur, India. Unlike contemporary fishing methods, Inmon Ngaa Lanu relies on indigenous knowledge, natural piscicidal plants, and collective community engagement. The study documents the process, equipment used, cultural rituals, types of fishing practiced, and the broader socio-cultural and environmental implications of the tradition. Through qualitative observation and community interviews, the research reveals how Inmon Ngaa Lanu serves not only as a subsistence strategy but also as a mechanism for cultural preservation, environmental stewardship, and communal unity.

Introduction

The traditional fishing practice of the Inpui community, known as Inmon Ngaa Lanu, is a culturally significant event deeply rooted in indigenous customs. Unlike modern fishing techniques, this method relies on natural piscicidal plants and communal participation. Notably, the event is neither pre-scheduled nor planned in advance, as traditional beliefs hold that doing so might invite rainfall, disrupting the activity.

Preparation and Collection of Piscicidal Plants (KARU)

On the designated day, strong and energetic men set out early in the morning to collect KARU, a category of piscicidal plants. These include the bark of lianas, a thorny climbing plant, and walnut leaves. In the Inpui dialect, the liana bark is called Kweitan, while walnut leaves are referred to as Karukarana.

Once gathered, the collected plants are brought to the village playground and left there while the men take a meal. Afterward, all interested participants—men, women, children, and even friends from neighboring villages—gather at the village ground. There are no age restrictions or prohibitions for participation, but those joining from outside the village must have contributed to the collection of KARU.

Before proceeding to the river, a village elder leads a prayer to seek blessings for a successful fishing event. Then, they move to the village gate, pick a leaf from nearby, spit on it, and apply it to their hands. This act is performed as a sign of purification and to ensure that no problems arise during their journey for the day.

Traditional Fishing Equipment

The tools used for fishing include:

• 1. Tumpon – A basket trap woven from split bamboo, designed with a narrow neck, approximately the size of a grown man’s thigh.
• 2. Ruang – A spear-like traditional fishing weapon with three iron prongs, used for piercing fish.
• 3. Ankhuan – A bamboo basket with a wide opening and a smaller, elongated closed end, used to collect stunned or semi-conscious fish.

Selection of the Fishing Site

Upon reaching the riverside, older men identify an optimal fishing location, usually where the river naturally divides into two channels. This minimizes the volume of water in the selected section, making the process more effective. Meanwhile, young boys gather firewood, which is later used for pounding the liana bark and walnut leaves. After final preparations, an elder offers another prayer before initiating the fishing process.

The Fishing Process

The collected liana bark and walnut leaves are placed on a large flat stone and pounded by men and women standing in a circle. As they work, they chant rhythmically—”Ho… ho… ho… ho…”—creating a spirited atmosphere. In some instances, traditional songs related to fishing, known to all participants, are sung to enhance the communal experience. This process releases a milky-white, foamy liquid containing natural toxins that temporarily stun the fish.

Once an elder confirms the effectiveness of the toxin in the water, he announces the readiness for fish collection.

Once all fish are gathered, the event concludes with a final prayer led by the elder. Participants then return home joyfully, carrying their share of the catch.

Types of Traditional Fishing

Two primary methods of fishing are practiced:

1. Barakhapnu (Collective Fishing)

A section of the river, naturally split into two, is chosen. One channel is blocked using stones, leaves, and branches, reducing water flow and making fish collection easier. After collecting all the fish, they are gathered at a common spot and distributed equally among all participants by the eldest member present.

2. Ngaa Laanu (Individual Fishing)

The entire river is used as the fishing area. KARU is dispersed throughout the water, affecting fish in a broader section. Unlike Barakhapnu, individuals keep the fish they catch for themselves.

Significance of Inpui Traditional Fishing (Kutrou Bataanu)

1. Cleansing and Purification – The event often takes place during the New Year season (March–April), after all marriage ceremonies are concluded, as a symbolic act of purification. It marks a fresh start for the year and is believed to bring good fortune for upcoming agricultural activities. As part of this ritual, participants take a specific leaf, spit on it, and apply the extract to their hands before proceeding to the fishing site.

2. Fostering Unity – The communal nature of this activity strengthens social bonds among villagers and promotes cooperation.

Environmental Considerations

This traditional fishing practice is conducted outside the breeding season of fish (March–April) to minimize ecological impact. By adhering to sustainable practices, the Inpui community ensures the preservation of both cultural heritage and aquatic ecosystems.

This detailed account of Inmon Ngaa Lanu highlights its cultural, social, and environmental significance, demonstrating how indigenous traditions can coexist harmoniously with nature while fostering community spirit.

Conclusion

The practice of Inmon Ngaa Lanu stands as a profound testament to the Inpui community’s deep connection with nature, tradition, and communal life. Far beyond a means of sustenance, it reflects a harmonious coexistence between human activity and ecological balance, guided by spiritual beliefs and cultural customs. The event fosters unity, renews social bonds, and reinforces collective responsibility, while maintaining sustainable practices that safeguard aquatic ecosystems. In preserving and practicing Inmon Ngaa Lanu, the Inpui people not only sustain their heritage but also offer valuable insights into the role of indigenous knowledge in modern environmental and cultural conservation.