In the western hill ranges of Tamenglong district, Manipur, dwell the Kabui Naga tribe, a group of indigenous origin well known for its unique traditions, skillful workmanship, and lively cultural heritage of ornaments, textiles, and houses. Many Kabui dwell in the hills, and those found in the plains live near the foothills to have access to the jungle for forest resources along with agriculture. One of the architectural works of Kabui community that distinguishes itself apart is Tarang Kai, a rich man's house made beautiful with bright paintings in front, representing various myths and belief on being ordained by Tinkao Ragwang, the supreme deity of the Kabui people. Its intricate patterns of decoration are careful commingling of the Kabui's well-nourished artistic energy and distinctive design flair that are said to have developed in incorporating a great sense of art from the ornament-making experience with which they are popular.
These houses demonstrate a hierarchy of status, and both spiritual belief (animism) and its old form of knowledge culture become vividly reflected in the architectonics of their design. Set on raised village settlements, these houses record a genuine status symbol and stand as a manifestation of cultural identity. Tarang Kai is an embodiment of the Kabui people's relationship with their ancestral traditions and skills.