Igus (shamans) are the backbone of the Idu culture. They make a child Idu, protect us throughout our life, and ensure that, after death, our spirits travel safely to be with our ancestors. They also maintain balance with nature and serve as the community's traditional knowledge keepers. 

However, this knowledge system is at risk. Research conducted by the Idu Mishmi Cultural and Literary Society (IMCLS) found that fewer than 70 practicing Igus remain among a population of approximately 12,000–13,000 Idu Mishmi people. Fewer young Idus are naturally initiating into shamanism, causing deep concern within the community. The loss of igus would mean the loss of Idu identity and biocultural diversity.

To address this urgent need, the Idu Mishmi Shaman Fellowship in collaboration with the IMCLS, helps Idu youth learn shamanism and become the next generation of igus and indigenous knowledge keepers. The tamros (assistant fellows) train under senior igus, learning chants, rituals, and spiritual practices and traditional knowledge systems through intergenerational education and mentorship.

The programme also organizes community-based workshops across the Dibang Valley districts of Roing and Anini, creating opportunities for wider youth participation in traditional cultural practices, including ripu-toh (traditional instruments), tamro-lah (traditional chanting), and nNa (traditional dance). These workshops serve as important platforms for cultural education, community outreach, and awareness, encouraging more young people to engage with and value their heritage.

Through this initiative, the Idu Mishmi community is actively safeguarding an invaluable living heritage, ensuring that traditional knowledge, cultural practices, and the role of future knowledge keepers continue to thrive in a rapidly changing world.

About Dibang Team 

The Dibang Team is a collective of Idu Mishmi people from the twin districts of the Dibang Valley of Arunachal Pradesh, India. We have been working to conserve the region’s bio-cultural diversity while creating sustainable livelihoods. We combine Western science with Idu knowledge, culture, and spirituality to strengthen our cultural and traditional institutions, ensuring that the region’s biocultural diversity continues to thrive for generations.