The Semas Naga, or the Sump Nagas as they are commonly known, comprise several localized areas, mainly concentrated in the state of India, Nagaland. Cotton shawls have become one of the important ornaments of the Sema tribe which is generally the favorite garb among all the Naga tribes. The Sema people or tribe-they are distinctive in that their dress speaks much about their persona, stature, and craft. This silk cotton shwal-black generally creates an influence among the majority of Naga societies with the might and honor. The body of the shawl is imbrication embroidered design- linear designs made with blue square motifs- distinctly stylized but having a very profound meaning behind it. The blue lines signify rivers or paths which are very important for tribal narrations while the red squares stand for prosperity, courage, or the warrior spirit of the tribe.
The shawl is finished on the edges with very fine red, yellow, and black stripes which add to the aesthetic gracefulness of this garment. At each end, it has a cotton tassel or fringes which are believed to serve as a decorative or practical purpose. These fringes are usually hand-tied, which often signifies craftsmanship and personal touch bestowed by the weaver. This shawl is worn by both men and women during any festival, celebration, or meeting of society. This is more prominently used at the time of the Tuluni festival, which is the most celebrated festival of the Sema, signifying the most prosperous time of the year, bringing the entire community into an even closer bond with one another