Greetings from the Hills
'Wibam ma'? This is the traditional term for greetings use by my people living in the hills of Manipur and Nagaland. It can be translated as '(Are you) doing fine/well'? This greeting reflects the concern people have for each other. Well-being of one and all is of utmost importance for my hill tribe. This greeting is always uttered with a pleasant countenance and a feeling of love and concern. At a time when the world is fighting COVID-19 pandemic, a good greeting can make somebody's day. So I greet you (with a smile and concern) 'WIBAM MA'? Another common way of greeting among my people is the use of the phrase 'tei tiu tang de malo'?, which means 'have you eaten food (rice in our case)'. This greeting is deeply rooted to the traditional and cultural way of living of my people. Once a friend commented about this greeting that 'our people are more concern about your stomach than your health or well-being'. Well it seems to be true. I ...