Cultural Symbolism of Motifs in Northeast Indian Tribal Textiles Review of literature | IJORET – Volume 11- Issue 3 | IJORET-V11I3P5

The textile traditions of North-East India reflect the rich cultural heritage and identity of its tribal communities. Motifs used in these textiles are not merely decorative elements but symbolic representations of nature, spirituality, social structure, and traditional beliefs. This review of literature examines the cultural symbolism of motifs in tribal textiles across different communities such as the Naga, Manipuri, Bodo, and Mising tribes. The study highlights how motifs inspired by flora, fauna, rivers, celestial bodies, and geometric forms communicate cultural values, ecological knowledge, and community identity. The review also explores the role of women in preserving weaving traditions and the importance of textiles in rituals and social practices. Furthermore, it discusses the challenges posed by modernization and globalization, emphasizing the need for preservation through digital documentation and contemporary design integration. The study identifies research gaps related to the adaptation of tribal motifs in modern fashion, comparative tribal studies, and digital preservation strategies. Overall, the review demonstrates that tribal textile motifs function as visual narratives that preserve and communicate the cultural heritage of North-East India.

The review of literature reveals that motifs in North-East Indian tribal textiles carry deep cultural, religious, ecological, and social significance. These motifs act as visual expressions of identity, beliefs, traditions, and the relationship between tribal communities and nature. Different ethnic groups such as the Naga, Manipuri, Bodo, and Mising communities possess unique weaving traditions and symbolic motif systems that reflect their cultural values and lifestyles. The literature also highlights the important role of women in preserving these traditions through intergenerational knowledge transfer. However, increasing modernization and globalization pose challenges to the survival of traditional textile practices. Although many studies focus on documentation and cultural interpretation, limited research addresses the adaptation of tribal motifs into contemporary textile and apparel design. There is also a lack of comparative and technology-oriented studies related to digital preservation and commercialization. Therefore, future research should focus on integrating traditional motifs into modern design practices while maintaining authenticity and cultural significance. Preserving these textile traditions is essential for safeguarding the intangible cultural heritage of North-East India and promoting sustainable cultural continuity.

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