This dance is the folk dance of the Chang tribe of Nagaland state. It was performed to celebrate victory in a battle over enemies, during the erstwhile times. In the present times, it is performed on a three day long festival of Poangelam. This festival proceeds the time of harvest in the region. It symbolizes the onset of the harvesting season in Nagaland. A warrior costume is worn by the participants for the display. The men performing this dance form are usually tall, robust, hard working and brave, in short, they possess all the traits of a good warrior. The women of the Chang tribe also join the men in the dance with utmost grace. The props used during the performance are dao, shield and spear, the weapons of war. Folk dance is an expression of identity of both participant and the occasion. The form of a Naga folkdance is based on the martial arts tradition of headhunting. The costumes i.e. shield, spear and sword etc worn by the dancers illustrate mythological stories, oral history, folklore, war, romance, and nature correlation. Aggressive movements, strong rhythmic folk tune and beat are characteristic of folkdance. Both male and female folkdances alike are martial in character. Traditionally Sümi Naga folkdance is performed only under the royal patronage. An influential man of status who had own trophy (enemies head), accomplished purification rite, and treated lavish feast to the community. In short a great warrior, religious, and wealthy man. He also is the head and guru of the village morung institution.