The Story
Puondum: The word 'Puondum' literally means 'black cloth' and is derived from the Duhlian or Lushai dialect. In recent times, puondum has come to be associated with the Tribe shawl or traditional tribe cloth. (Thangzasiek Gangte, 49 years Siempat Village, Luongpi, Nungba, Tamenglong District, Manipur interviewed on 18/01/2013 at which Ccpr. residence). Representing the same significance attributed to a nation's flag, the puondum represents a tribe, and especially in the Gangte sowed community it plays a vital role in many customary procedures. Even a bride price can never be settled without a puondum or a puonpi as per Gangte customary law. The Gangte tribe colours comprises chiefly of three colours - black, red and yellow. The three colours are horizontally laid into a vibrant design. There is no particular occasion as to when the puondum should be wom or be used. Be it a happy event or a mournful incident, the puondum can be displayed or used to adorn a person to make an identification of the Gangte tribe's presence.
(Extracted from a book- A Short History of THE INDIGENOUS COMMUNITIES OF KANGLEIPAK Vol.-X
Section: TRADITIONAL DRESSES AND COSTUMES OF THE GANGTES By Dr. Priyadarshni M.Gangte Associate Professor, Damdei Christian College, Motbung, Manipur.)
