Morung Express News
While in Kisama in this Hornbill Festival, pay a visit to Pochury Morung. The Morung (dormitory of young men) is perhaps the first known institute, which was well organized and due to recognition given by the traditional society. It acted as the key forum and platform of social activity. Hence all rituals and worships were co-related and associated with the Morungs. As a matter of fact, the structure of Morung was more distinct, unique, and the most decorated structure among all typical houses of the tradition times. The basis of social life, religion and forms of worship, festivals and rituals were all connected to the Morungs which are depicted by the artistic designs carved in the wooden frame on the front of the Morung.
It is the home of village youth; both young males and female of the village have their respective Morung. Entry into each other’s Morung is restricted. During festivals, food items were brought from respective homes and shared amongst them.
It is the roosting place of the village youths. Any sign of impending danger or in the event of any emergency, the Morung is the first information centre for any assistance and this information are disseminated by the youths to the entire village. The Morung is also a place where the youths of the village come to know each other and develop qualities of collective responsibilities for the village. Any criminal or intruder into the village is caught and kept under the watchful eye of the Morung occupants.
The display of animal heads in front of the individual’s house signifies a feast given to the villagers by an individual. Displaying this animal heads in the present day Morung is to preserve the traditional heritage for its significance. During a particular festival, all the men folk of the village cut branches of trees and plant them at the premises of the Morung to cast away the evil spirits and bring rich harvest for the year.
The warriors whoever brings head of men and tigers are revered as trophies and they had to stay for five days and nights in the Morung.
