Threads of Tradition: The Timeless Legacy of Beads in Arunachal Pradesh

Beads of Arunachal Pradesh: Emerging Cultural Context describes the cultural importance of different beads among the people of North-East India in general and Arunachal Pradesh in particular. The tradition of beads has been embedded in the lives of the people of the North-East from time immemorial. More than just ornaments, beads hold economic, ritualistic, and social significance, serving as markers of identity, wealth, and tradition. Their continued relevance in trade and social transactions speaks volumes about their enduring cultural value. Despite modernization and globalization reaching even the remotest corners of the region, the allure of beads remains undiminished.

Beads have long been used as bartering tools, sometimes even replacing conventional money. However, with their popularity comes the challenge of authenticity, as counterfeit beads flood the markets, threatening the legacy of the original handcrafted pieces. The book describes the economic, cultural, and ritual significance of beads, their historical relation to migration and popular beliefs, classification mechanisms, legends and history around them, and ethnic specifications.

The oral history, gender questions, social dynamics, and even inter- as well as intra-tribal relationships have been described in detail in the book. With vivid imagery and engaging narratives, it offers readers a deeper understanding of not just the beads themselves but the vibrant history and culture of the North-East. This book makes for an interesting read and acts as a guide for those who are interested not only in beads but also in the history and traditions of the region.