Nishi is a tribal community found in
Lower Subansiri District of
Arunachal Pradesh. They are commonly characterized as Indo-Mongoloid stock. Nyishis speak a distint language, which is a part of Tibeto-Burman language family.
Agriculture is the main occupation of this community. They also engage in forest wealth collection and fishing. Nishis are expert in handling the bow and arrow.
Nishis have their own secretive customs and regulations. They are divided into several exogamous clans. The men keep their hair long and tie it in a knot just above the forehead. They also wear cane bands around the waist.
Nishis love dance, drama and music. All their festivals and celebrations are marked with dance and music. Nyokum is an important harvest festival celebrated by the tribe. This festival is dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi (goddess of crops). Rekham Pada Dance is one of the main dance forms of the Nishi Tribe.
