Source: TH
Context: The Apatani women of Ziro Valley, Arunachal Pradesh, represent the last generation to wear the tribe’s traditional facial tattoos and wooden nose plugs, a practice banned in the 1970s but still proudly carried by elderly women.
About The Apatanis Tribe:
- Who They Are?
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- The Apatani (Tanw, Apa Tani, or Apa) are an indigenous tribal group of Arunachal Pradesh.
- Known for their distinct cultural identity, ecological knowledge, and traditional practices.
- Habitat:
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- Primarily inhabit the Ziro Valley, located in the Lower Subansiri district of Arunachal Pradesh.
- Valley is bowl-shaped, scenic, and lies in the eastern Himalayan ranges.
- Apatani Facial Tattoos:
- History:
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- It was introduced as a tribal protection strategy during times when raids and abductions by neighbouring tribes were common.
- Over time, it evolved into a marker of identity and cultural pride, signifying a woman’s belonging to the Apatani community.
- Reasons:
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- Protection from Abduction: Tattoos and large wooden nose plugs were intended to make Apatani women appear less attractive to outsiders and rival tribes.
- Identity & Dignity: Became a symbol of honour, belonging, and dignity within the community.
- Cultural Beauty Standard: Among the Apatanis, tattoos later became associated with tribal beauty ideals, despite being unusual to outsiders.
- Custom & Process:
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- Age of Tattooing: Typically done when girls were around 10 years old.
- Conducted by elder women of the tribe.
- Design (Tippei):
- A vertical line from the forehead down to the tip of the nose.
- Five lines tattooed on the chin.
- Nose Plugs (Yaping Hullo): Large wooden plugs inserted into both sides of the nose after cleaning the wood to prevent infection.
- Community View: Women with tattoos and plugs were considered honourable, proud custodians of tradition, and protectors of family dignity.
- Decline:
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- In the early 1970s, the government banned the practice, citing social stigma and hindrances to women’s employment opportunities in modern settings.
- Today, only elderly Apatani women still bear tattoos and plugs, making them the last living carriers of this tradition.
