nagaiya, or age mates, are individuals bonded together for life in a manner similar to siblings, though not necessarily blood relations. two individuals can become nagaiya if they are born at the same time or if their mothers are isolated in the birthing hut at the same time. boys have a second opportunity to become nagaiya if they go through the manhood initiation ceremony together. (this ceremony consists of living isolated in the forest for a month, receiving a new name, getting piercings, and playing music with sacred flutes.) women can become nagaiya, but it is not as important for them as it is for men.