Relations play a crucial role in the Tongchangya community, encompassing connections by blood, marriage, and even adaptation. These relationships are vital for tracing one’s ancestry through a family tree, which is a significant aspect of Tongchangya culture. Understanding familial ties is not only important for maintaining close bonds but also essential when it comes to marriage. Certain customs dictate that individuals cannot marry if they belong to the same generation; for instance, a niece cannot marry her uncle, and similarly, an aunt cannot marry her nephew. In addition to that, it is also essential to highlight the Tongchangya customs related to the seven ascending and descending generations. These traditions have been passed down through generations, highlighting the community’s commitment to preserving its cultural values.
Respect for seniors is deeply ingrained in Tongchangya culture, with younger generations (referred to as pawla/পলা) showing deference to their elders. This respect fosters a sense of unity and belonging within the community. The terminology used to describe familial relationships is rich and varied, reflecting the complexity and importance of these connections.
For example, terms like Lisu (Great Great Grandfather) and Pisu (Great Grandfather) illustrate the reverence for ancestry. Other terms such as Bua Da (Grandfather) and Bua Bei (Grandmother) signify the foundational roles that grandparents play in family life. Similarly, immediate family members are referred to by specific titles: Ma (Mother), Ba/Bo (Father), Da (Elder Brother), and Bhai (Younger Brother).
Moreover, extended family relationships are also recognized, with terms for uncles, aunts, and cousins, such as Hukhu (Uncle) and Hui (Aunt), emphasizing the interconnectedness of the community. The Tongchangya vocabulary reflects a deep appreciation for familial ties, ensuring that each member understands their place within the larger family structure.
- Lisu=লিসু -Great Great grandfather
- Pisu-পিসু-Great grandfather
- Bua-Da/Achu বুআ-দা/ আসু- Grand Father
- Bua-Bei/Nu- বুআ-বেই/নু- Grand Mother
- Ma/Mama/Nu/Yo-মা/মামা/নুMother
- Ba/Bo/- Father
- Bei- বেই- Elder/older sister
- Boin-বইন Younger-sister
- Da- দা- Elder/older brother
- Bai-বাই-Younger brother
- Hukhu- হুক্কু-Uncle
- Hui-হুই- Aunt
- Jiru-জিরু-Father elder/older brother/ Great uncle
- Jerei- জেরেই-Father elder/older brother’s wife/ Great Aunt
- Mosya-মোস্যা- Uncle (Husband of one’s mother sister)
- Moi- মৈ-One’s mother’s sister/cousin’s sister
- Pisya-পিস্যা- Husband of father’s sister
- Pi-পি-Father sister/ cousin sister
- Mamu- মামু-Uncle
- Mami-মামি-Aunty
- Nek-নেক-Husband
- Muk-মুক- Wife
- Purobo-পুরবো- Daughter-in-law
- Jamei- জামেই- Son-in-law
- Pawa- পয়া-Son
- Jhi-ঝি- Daughter
- Naring- নারিং-Grandchild/son/daughter
- Puring- পুরিং-Great grandchild/son/ daughter
- Suring-সুরিং- Great great grandchild/son/ daughter
- Uring- উরিং- Great Great great grandchild/son/ daughter
The Tongchangya community holds unique customs regarding relationships and generational ties, particularly concerning the concept of seven ascending and descending generations. This principle governs various aspects of social conduct, including marriage and moral responsibilities.
- Marriage Exemptions: In Tongchangya tradition, individuals may marry within certain familial boundaries, specifically when the relationship involves siblings of the father or uncle (on the paternal side). However, they are exempt from these prohibitions after considering the seven ascending and descending generations. This means that if a potential marital connection is distantly related beyond seven generations, it is deemed acceptable.
- Meritorious Deeds: Members of the Tongchangya community are encouraged to remember their seven ascending and descending generations when performing meritorious deeds. This practice emphasizes the importance of lineage and the impact of one’s actions on ancestral legacy, reinforcing a sense of responsibility toward family history.
- Caution in Dangerous Situations: The community also observes a principle of caution when facing dangers, such as the threat posed by a tiger, referred to as “Bu Pana.” If an ancestor’s actions led to peril, the descendants are expected to refrain from similar conduct for up to seven generations. This belief illustrates the community’s deep respect for ancestral wisdom and the consequences of actions, promoting a culture of mindfulness and accountability.
In summary, the relationships within the Tongchangya community are characterized by respect, tradition, and a strong sense of identity, making them an integral part of their cultural heritage. Moreover, the customs surrounding the seven ascending and descending generations in the Tongchangya community reflect a complex interplay of familial relations, moral obligations, and respect for ancestral heritage, guiding individuals in their social interactions and ethical decision-making.
