Patsho/Sei

Introduction

The sei(wordplay or pun) is an old tradition that existed since the establishment of the villages across the region. It is closely identical with Paronomasia or Malapropism (also called a malapropism, sexologist, or Dogberryism). It became popular during the 80s and 90s and continues to exist till today. But the norms have changed in accordance with the compelling alternate present situation.

Significance

It is a form of sentence that interestingly rhymes, used by a group of people from a village against the opponent village. Ostensibly, the infelicity in this culture is inevitable, debated to champion over other villages. It is quite invective when stated by a village against others that the rivalry village could not sit idle without a response to win over.

History

The idea that the Sei was developed to triumph over the opponent village is somehow culturally rooted. To exemplify, the statement “Ei Patsho hai mo, vi-ie kü le mo”, is indeed the most significant message of proving bravery against other villages. It translates to, “I am from Patsho, equally skilled to confront” which is a statement of unintimidated nature over dangers. Such culture came into existence as the by-product of the nature of headhunting practice, where warrior tradition is overwhelmed.

To affront the neighboring village, the statement “Asa tü pingha, jüsa tü lai shua”, is allusively crafted to subdue the opponent group. It indicates the weak nature of the opposer but formidableness of the other. “You are the tail of the spear, we are the head of the spear” , is indeed a daunting message for the adversaries.

Conclusion

The pure Sei tradition may cease to exist due to an obsolete form of society where engaging in war was an everyday norm. But the alternate form of Sei tradition is live, filled with excitement and joy, usually performed during occasions for entertainment purposes. Some statements and words are from ancestors still carried on verbally and may be intimidating for the antagonist.