The Intangible Cultural Heritage of Memba
Key Takeaways
Membas are known for making their wheat based noodles at home, using a wooden tool. The type of wheat grain is called Gyarb, which is similar to Ragi. The noodle is made as a special item during marriage, Losar, rituals and festivals or at any party. The unique traditional tool that the Membas use for making their special wheat noodle is called 'Puda Chirshing'. Their native Liquor is called Chhang. The welcome drink is called Langjong, and the farewell drink is called tyshang. The preparation of Pa, is made of millet and is also considered as their staple food. Pa is consumed with pork dry meat.The Memba community is known for their elaborate costumes. The male members wear a typical shirt called Khanjar, a jacket Chubba, belt Kara and silk head gear called siong. Caps called Siring Kenya are made of fur, and are also worn by men in winters. Women’s caps called kongsh are specifically known for their varied designs and colours. The Memba women wear a full length black jacket called Gushi paired up with a silver belt. Married women wear an apron like wrap over their gowns called pang dep, they adorn themselves with silver stone beaded ornaments, such as head bands called kuki, stone studded bangles called landu Dim, earrings called along and different kinds of necklaces, even the belt worn by women has a silver chain ornament hanging from it.
Membas are traditionally adept in carpet making, however the practice is unfortunately a dying tradition today. These carpets are called Khadem.They sing specific folk songs during any happy occasion be it house warming, wedding, festivals. Their main festivals are Losar and Yangru, which is the welcoming of the new harvest and thanking God for it. Tsedup is an annual puja for well-being, where a deity is made with millet powder and coloured called 'Torma'.
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