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Sacred Chants and Vanishing Voices: An Ethnographic Study of Zizi(Shaman) Rituals and Ritualistic-language of the Shertukpen Tribe of India.

Author(s) Dr. Vineeta Dowerah, Dr. Tashi Dorjee Megeji, Mr. Sonam Topgey Kharm
Country India
Abstract West Kameng District of Arunachal Pradesh, located in the north-eastern region of the Indian subcontinent is home to six major indigenous tribes. The Shertukpen is one among the indigenous tribes that inhabit the southern part of the district.This study examines the traditional belief system of the Shertukpens focusing on the role of ritual specialists known as 'zizis' and the preservation of their esoteric ritual language. The Shertukpens practice a syncretic tradition blending Mahayana Buddhism with the pre-Buddhist Bon belief system, where rituals involving trance, divination, healing, and protection are central to socio-religious life. These rituals are conducted through chants in an archaic, specialized language understood only by trained priests. Zizis are classified into 'Chandzizis', believed to be divinely chosen through visions, and 'Khikzizis', who undergo structured apprenticeship; both derive spiritual authority from the deity Sungkhit. However, the number of practicing 'zizis' has declined due to modernization, demanding ritual obligations, lack of financial incentives, and diminishing youth interest, threatening the survival of this oral tradition and cultural identity. Using ethnographic methods such as participant observation and interviews with priests, elders, and community leaders, this study documents ritual practices and explores preservation efforts. It highlights the need for systematic documentation, transliteration, audio-visual archiving, institutional recognition, financial support, and structured training programs to sustain this endangered cultural heritage.
Keywords Shertukpen, Khikzizi, Chandzizi, Ritualistic -language, Socio-religious Identity.
Field Sociology > Philosophy / Psychology / Religion
Published In Volume 7, Issue 4, April 2026
Published On 2026-04-08
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