Lifestyle

The Dimasa tribe, numbering around 250,000, is primarily concentrated in the North Cachar Hills district of Assam, with smaller populations in parts of Cachar, Karbi Anglong, and Nagaon districts. Their lifestyle is deeply rooted in agriculture, with men primarily engaged in farming activities while women manage household chores and often contribute to handicrafts.

Traditional Dimasa houses are built on stilts using bamboo or wood, with walls made of woven bamboo mats and roofs thatched with leaves or grass. This construction style is adapted to withstand the tropical climate and occasional floods of the region. Agriculture forms the backbone of their economy, with crops like rice, maize, millet, and vegetables cultivated using age-old techniques. Livestock farming, including pigs and poultry, supplements their income and diet. In agriculture, Dimasa people participate in various economic activities such as weaving, pottery, and handicrafts.

These crafts, including bamboo and cane products, handwoven textiles, pottery, and woodcarving, not only provide additional income but also serve as a means to preserve and showcase their rich cultural heritage and craftsmanship. These products are sold in local markets or to traders who frequent their villages, contributing to the tribe’s economic sustainability. Apart from farming, the Dimasa people engage in various artisanal activities such as weaving, pottery, and handicrafts. Skilled artisans within the community craft intricate bamboo and cane products, handwoven textiles, pottery, and woodcarvings. These traditional crafts not only generate income for the artisans but also play a significant role in preserving and showcasing the tribe’s cultural heritage. These handmade goods are often sold in local markets or to traders who visit their villages, contributing to the tribe’s economic well-being. The Dimasa people also participate in trade, exchanging their agricultural produce and artisanal goods with neighboring communities or traders who visit their villages. This exchange of goods not only facilitates economic transactions but also fosters social and cultural connections with other communities in the region.