World most dreaded tribe: There are many unique and ancient tribes in the world, which are famous for their traditions and customs. One such tribe is the ‘Surma’ or ‘Mursi’ tribe, which is found in the remote areas of Ethiopia and Sudan in Africa. One of the most shocking and bizarre traditions of this world most dreaded tribe is the tradition of cutting the lips of women and wearing a large clay or wooden plate in them.
Beginning and Purpose of the Tradition in the World Most Dreaded Tribe
When the girls of the Mursi tribe enter adolescence, that is, at the age of about 15-16 years, a small incision is made in their lower lip and a wooden or clay disc is worn in it. Over time, the size of this disc is increased, and the lip is pulled further so that the larger plate can fit. The lips of some women grow so much that a large disc of up to 8-10 inches can be worn in them.
Reasons Behind the Tradition in the World Most Dreaded Tribe
There are many reasons hidden behind this tradition:
Symbol of Beauty and Attraction in the World Most Dreaded Tribe
The people of the Mursi tribe consider it a symbol of beauty and courage. Women who have large lip plates get more respect and prestige in society. They see it as a special identity, which makes them more attractive.
Marriage and Dowry Relations in the World Most Dreaded Tribe
The large plate in the lips of women is also important in the context of marriage and dowry. Women with large plates receive better dowry for their family, and they also get the right to choose good grooms. In this way, this tradition plays an important role in marriage relations.
Prevention from Slavery
In history, this tradition had another important purpose – protection from slavery. It was believed that women tried to escape slavery by deforming their lips, as women with deformed organs were not bought by slave traders. Thus, the deformity helped them escape slavery.
Physical and Mental Suffering in the World Most Dreaded Tribe
Although this tradition is part of the identity of the Mursi tribe, it is extremely painful for women to follow it. The process of repeatedly pulling the lips and changing the plates is extremely painful. Many times it also causes injuries and wounds. It is difficult for women to bear this pain, but due to social pressure and respect they adopt it.
Changes in Modern Times
Now this practice is gradually changing. Due to the increase in modern education and health awareness, opposition to this practice has started. Young women of today are opposing this tradition and rejecting it. Apart from this, governments and many social organizations are also trying to free the tribes from such painful practices.
Conclusion: The Cultural Identity of the World Most Dreaded Tribe. This tradition of the Mursi tribe is a part of their cultural identity, but from the modern point of view, it is considered cruel and inhuman. This shows that some tribes follow harsh customs to keep their culture and traditions alive, which may be shocking and unbelievable to the outside world. Although now this tradition is slowly ending, it still remains a symbol of heritage and cultural pride of the Mursi tribe.
