北東インド、アルナーチャル・プラデーシュ州、モンパ族の高齢者を訪ねて

Abstract

Dirang Circle located the east part of Arunachal Pradesh north East part of India. Monpa tribe lives there. Monpa tribe is classified into two tribe, one is a Brokpa, the other one is Unpa. Brokpa is Nomads. They live at about 3000m and over altitude and do farming in higher mountain during summer season and live in their own village during winter season. Unpa is agricultural people. They live at about 2000m altitude and settle in house and farming whole year. Unpa people grow rice, corn, buckwheat and vegetables. Their life-style is very different. But both Brokpa and Unpa peoples cherish the time they spend with family. In Monpa erea, Tibetan Buddhism has an important role. When the puja is taken in Gompa 2 or 3 times a month, many elderly come to Gompa. Everyone enjoy listening rama's word, talking with friends and family, and taking lunch that was cooked by themselves and share it with friends. Gonpa is place of exchange. Good traditional system and local knowledge exist in Monpa's life. We may find the key for solving problems of medical care for elderly, environmental issues.