Title: The Making Of Bastanga

Language: Lotha

Description: Bastanga is a term used for a highly valued ingredient in Lotha cuisine, central to the Naga culinary tradition. Essentially, it refers to bamboo shoots, which are widely used across the Naga society to enhance the flavor of a variety of dishes, especially curries. Among the Lotha community, it is commonly featured in meals like Liek Boils or Machii Han, a well-loved dish.

The origin of this key ingredient is traced to Wokha, where it goes by several names. The people of Wokha refer to it as “rhüjak,” “rhüyen,” and “rhüjü.” “Rhüjak” and “rhüyen” both describe dried bamboo shoots, while “rhüjü” refers to the liquid extract from the shoots.

In this video, K Sandeep Andrew Lotha, hailing from Longsa Village in Wokha town, 797111, provides an insightful narration of the traditional process involved in making bastanga. He walks us through the journey of its creation, from the initial extraction of the bamboo shoot from its roots to the stages of preparation, including drying it under the sun.

The process is a lengthy one, often taking over a week or two to complete. This extended period is largely due to Wokha’s cold climate, which slows the drying process, requiring the community to wait patiently for the sun to help transform the bamboo shoots into the cherished bastanga.

Format & Duration: Video & Duration: 2 mins
Date of Recording: 7/16/2024
Date of Upload: 20 January 2025
Performer: K. Sandemo Andrew Lotha
Creator: Therali Rebecca S Ezung
Publisher: Tetso College, Dimapur
Note: Bastanga, while originating from Wokha and closely associated with the Lotha people, has become a staple ingredient across Naga society. Its versatility and rich flavor have made it a beloved addition to many Naga dishes, transcending its local roots to become an integral part of the broader culinary culture.

Cite this work

 Therali Rebecca S Ezung  . 2025  . The Making Of Bastanga .   (Narrated by K. Sandemo Andrew Lotha )  . NEIIPA, Tetso College  . (https://neiipa.in/audio/the-making-of-bastanga/)  . Accessed: (12-Feb-2025)