The Buguns or Khowas constitute one of the important tribes of Arunachal Pradesh. The Buguns or Khowas of Arunachal Pradesh are mainly found in the subtropical region of Tenga circle. It constitutes the places called Kaspi, Wanghoo, Tenga and Singchung in the circles of Tenga and Bichum in the district of West Kameng.
The Khowas or Buguns believe in the religion known as Donyi Polo. The people of this place put a lot of emphasis to rituals in the socio-religious life. Art forms such as dances and songs like Gasisiu and Clown have an important role to play in the socio-religious life of the Buguns. This ethnic group has been greatly influenced by the Buddhist culture of Tibet, due to its geographical proximity with the place called Sherdukpen.
The most important way of livelihood for the Buguns or Khowas of Arunachal Pradesh is agriculture. The Buguns or Khowas are efficient practitioners of shifting cultivation, which is not only one of the major ways of cultivation, but a significant part of the economy of the state.
The other important way of living for these people is rearing of domestic animals like horse, cow, sheep, pig, fowl and goat. Occasionally, the Buguns or Khowas also hunt wild animals. But it is not one of the chief ways of livelihood for them. The common weapons that the Buguns use to hunt the animals are traps, simple spears and bows and arrows.
Last Updated on 03 January 2011
