Idu Tribe is one of the main three groups of Mishmi tribe, others being Taraon and Kaman. They primarily inhabit in
Dibang Valley District of
Arunachal Pradesh.
Idu tribe has been divided into several sections, each named after the river by the side of which they live. Agriculture is their main occupation. Bebejia Mishmis - a section of Idus - are adept in weaving coats and blouses.
Idus are noted for their unique way of dressing hair. Hence they are also known as 'Chulikata': 'chuli' meaning 'hair' and 'kata' meaning 'to crop'. Both men and women shave their hair at the sides of the head. The front hair is combed forward over the brows and cut up to the level of ear while the back hair is kept knotted.
The main festival of the Idus lasts for six days and is devoted to the appeasement of the deities. The priests perform ritual-dance on this occasion. Ai-ah, Ai-him, Mesalah and Rren are the other important ceremonies of the Idus.
