The vibrant cultural heritage of Arunachal Pradesh took center stage as the much-anticipated second edition of Bharat Lok Sangeet – Arunachal Utsav 2025 commenced at Poi Pee Mau Tai Ground in Namsai on Sunday evening. The festival, organized by the Government of Arunachal Pradesh under the initiative of Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat, serves as a grand tribute to India’s rich folk traditions while reinforcing Arunachal Pradesh’s role as a custodian of indigenous heritage. Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein, addressing the gathering, extended a warm welcome to dignitaries, artists, and cultural enthusiasts. Expressing immense pride in Arunachal Pradesh’s diverse traditions, he underscored the significance of folk music and dance as a living testament to India’s unity in diversity. He lauded the festival’s success in bringing together folk traditions from across the country and beyond, with participation from international artists representing Bhutan and Thailand. The festival showcases performances from 15 cultural troupes representing the indigenous communities of Arunachal Pradesh, including the Adi, Aka Hrusso, Apatani, Idu Mishmi, Memba, Monpa, Nyishi, Tai Khamti, and Ollo tribes. Additionally, cultural groups from Himachal Pradesh, Karnataka, and Manipur have added to the festival’s grandeur, ensuring a vibrant exchange of traditions. The inclusion of Bhutanese and Thai cultural representatives further strengthens global cultural ties, illustrating the universal appeal of folk traditions that transcend borders.
During his address, Deputy CM Mein acknowledged the achievements of Arunachal’s cultural icons, particularly the Tai Khamti cultural troupe, which has earned accolades at national-level events such as the Ashtalakshmi Mahotsav and Republic Day celebrations in New Delhi. The troupe’s participation in a 5,000-artist ensemble that secured a Guinness World Record underscored Arunachal Pradesh’s artistic prowess on a global platform. In recognition of their contributions, Mein proposed that the troupe be felicitated with special certificates during the ongoing festival. Highlighting the growing international recognition of Arunachal’s cultural heritage, Mein announced that cultural troupes from the state would soon perform at the North East Festival in Singapore. He emphasized the government’s commitment to providing global platforms for Arunachal’s folk traditions, ensuring that young artists remain connected to their roots while gaining international exposure.To nurture emerging talent, Mein reaffirmed the Government of Arunachal Pradesh’s dedication to supporting artists through the Department of Art & Culture. He assured that continued efforts would be made to provide platforms, resources, and encouragement to cultural practitioners, allowing traditional art forms to evolve and reach wider audiences.
Recognizing the importance of heritage conservation in strengthening Arunachal Pradesh’s cultural identity, Mein praised the efforts of MLA Oken Tayeng, who serves as President of the Arunachal Chapter of INTACH (Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage). He commended INTACH’s initiatives in preserving and promoting India’s rich cultural and architectural heritage, expressing hope that such efforts would continue to safeguard Arunachal’s indigenous traditions for future generations. As the second edition of Bharat Lok Sangeet – Arunachal Utsav 2025 unfolds, it stands as a testament to Arunachal Pradesh’s cultural richness, resilience, and global outreach. Beyond celebrating folk traditions, the festival reinforces the state’s deep-rooted connection to India’s diverse cultural fabric. Through music, dance, and artistic expression, it fosters a shared heritage and mutual appreciation among different communities and nations. Expressing gratitude to the organizers, participating artists, and the enthusiastic audience, Deputy CM Mein voiced confidence that the festival would continue to grow as a premier cultural event. He reiterated that such initiatives will further establish Arunachal Pradesh as a beacon of folk heritage, promoting its legacy on national and international stages. The event was attended by several esteemed dignitaries, including Ministers Wangki Lowang, Dasanglu Pul, Gabriel D. Wangsu, Advisors and MLAs Zingnu Namchoom, Dr. Mohesh Chai, and MLAs Mutchu Mithi, Chakat Aboh, Mopi Mihu, Nikh Kamin, Nyabi Jini, Puinnyo Apum, Topin Ete, and Likha Soni, among others.
