Apiatavoista

Apiatavoista is a term originating from the Koro language, spoken by the Koro people of Northeast India. It generally translates to "ancestor spirits" or "departed souls of the ancestors." In Koro traditional beliefs, apiatavoista are considered to play an active role in the lives of their descendants. They are thought to influence well-being, fortune, and even health.

Reverence and respect are central to the Koro people's relationship with their apiatavoista. Rituals, offerings, and prayers are often performed to appease and honor these ancestral spirits. These practices are believed to ensure the continued favor and protection of the apiatavoista, thereby maintaining harmony between the living and the spiritual realms. Disrespect or neglect of the apiatavoista is thought to invite misfortune or illness.

The concept of apiatavoista underscores the importance of lineage and familial continuity within Koro society. Ancestors are not merely remembered but are actively integrated into the present, demonstrating a cyclical view of life and death. This belief system shapes many aspects of Koro culture, including social structures, moral codes, and community practices. Understanding apiatavoista is key to comprehending the spiritual and social fabric of the Koro people.