Azi
Azi are the sub ethnic group of Kachin. Azi along with Maru and Lashi are thought to have migrated into Myanmar (Burma) along the Tibetan and Chinese borders before either the Jinghpaw or Hkahku arrived. Azi chiefs consider themselves to be member of the Lahpai clan, one of the five parent clan along with the Marip, Lahtaw, N'hKhum and Maran - which link all Kachins. They are closely related to the Marus and Lashis. The Azis live south of the N'Mai-Mali Hka River confluence and many have been assimilated into the general Kachin population.
Some scholars believe that the connection between the Azis and Jinghpaws goes back to the Kachin custom of tracing their descent through duwas or hereditary chiefs. Whenever an Azi chief's family became extinct, they would elect a Lahpai duwa and claim to be of Lahpai or Jingpaw descent.
Flickr Images
