Arunachal Pradesh is situated on the north-eastern part of India. This hill state has attracted people from all around the world because of its flora and fauna, vegetation, forests and tribal population. While visiting Arunachal Pradesh do not forget to for go a tribal tour. This will help you to know the state in a better way.
Arunachal Pradesh is the largest state of India in terms of area. Their culture is dominated by the tribal population, the ethnic groups, varied languages and religion. This has resulted in a unique identity of the state. Arunachal Pradesh has three important cultural groups. These cultural groups have their unique identity because of their separate culture, tradition and rituals.
The first major cultural group of Arunachal Pradesh includes the Monpas and Sherdukpens. They mainly reside in the Tawang and West Kameng districts of the state. This cultural group follows the lamaistic tradition which has been inspired by the Mahayana Buddhism. The second cultural group includes people of Nishis, Mishmis, Mijis, Thongsas Adis, Akas, Apatanis, Bangnis and others. These people mainly worship the Sun and Moon God. The third cultural group of Arunachal Pradesh includes the Noctes and Wanchos. These communities live in in the Tirap district and follow Vaishnavism.
Fairs and festivals is an important part of the culture of Arunachal Pradesh. The festivals celebrated here have an agricultural, religious or socio-cultural significance. These festivals help them to enjoy, relax and have fun and frolic. The Losar Festival is the most important festival celebrated in India. Through this festival, the people of Arunachal Pradesh celebrate the New Year of the Monpa and Sherdukpen tribes. The main region where this festival is celebrated includes Bomdila and Tawang. Masked dances and special prayer sessions at monasteries are the main attractions of this festival.
Dance and music are an important part of the culture of Arunachal Pradesh. Their dance forms are highly stylized and are extremely colorful and have a story to tell. However, it should be noted that there are some dances where the female dancers are not allowed to dance with their male counter parts. These include the Igu dance of the Mishmi priests, ritualistic dance of the Buddhist tribes and the war dances of the Adis, Noctes and Wanchos.
The popular folk dances of Arunachal Pradesh include Rekham Pada Aji Lamu, Popir, Pasi, Roppi, Hiirii Khaniing, Kongki, Chalo, Ponung as well as Lion and Peacock dance.
Arunachal Pradesh is also known for its handicraft items. These items include cane and bamboo work, ornaments, pottery, carpet making, weaving, painting, wood carving, smithy work as well as basketry. The people here use Goat’s hair, ivory and boar’s tusks for making various items.
To know more about cultural tours in India, browse through the pages of Adventure Asia.
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