ITANAGAR: The Arunachal Pradesh government marked a significant cultural milestone with the inauguration of the first-ever State Folk Music and Dance Festival on Wednesday (February 28) in Namsai.
The event underscores the Arunachal Pradesh government’s ongoing commitment to preserving and celebrating the rich cultural heritage of the state.
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The festival provides a captivating platform for local artists and performers of indigenous folk songs and dances to exhibit their talents while showcasing the diverse cultural treasures of the region.
In his address at the festival, Arunachal Pradesh deputy chief minister Chowna Mein emphasized the festival’s role as a catalyst for safeguarding and promoting indigenous knowledge.
He highlighted its significant contribution to preserving the state’s unique cultural heritage on a global scale.
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With Arunachal Pradesh being home to 26 major tribes and over 100 sub-tribes, each with its own distinctive folk songs, lores, and dances, the festival serves as a testament to the rich tapestry of intangible cultural heritage passed down through generations.
Recognizing the pivotal role of arts and cultural industries in economic development and national identity, Mein urged individual artists to actively engage in preserving Arunachal Pradesh’s cultural legacy.
He stressed that their involvement would not only attract tourists but also create livelihood opportunities in the cultural and entertainment sector of the state.
Mein also lauded the leaders of various Traditional Authorities for their efforts in preserving cultural values and heritage in Arunachal Pradesh.
The two-day festival features performances by 18 indigenous folk musical dance groups and 5 folk musical bands from the state.
Additionally, three selected teams will have the opportunity to perform alongside 12 other cultural troupes from different states of India at the ‘Bharat Lok Sangeet – Arunachal Utsav 2024’ on March 2 and 3.
This extension of the State Folk and Music Festival aims at promoting cultural integration in line with Prime Minister Modi’s vision of ‘Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat’ since 2015.
During the inaugural session, Indian Idol (Season 14) Top 7 finalist Obom Tangu was felicitated by Mein on behalf of chief minister Pema Khandu and the government of Arunachal Pradesh.
The event was attended by various dignitaries including MP Lok Sabha, Arunachal East, Tapir Gao, MLAs Gum Tayeng, Laisam Simai, Dasanglu Pul, and Jummum Ete Deori, along with Padmashree Awardee and GI Expert Dr Rajani Kant, officials from NABARD, and cultural delegates from different districts of Arunachal Pradesh.