Itanagar: Arunachal Pradesh is poised to become the epicenter of artistic celebration as it hosts the Arunachal Rang Mahotsav (ARM ’24), the largest theatre festival in North East India. Announcing the event on November 20, Chief Minister Pema Khandu revealed that the festival will commence with a grand theatrical performance of Gyepo Kalawangpho on November 22 at the DK Convention Centre in Itanagar.
ARM ’24 promises to be a transformative cultural extravaganza, spanning fifteen days and serving as a dynamic platform to showcase the rich and diverse heritage of Arunachal Pradesh. The festival will blend tradition with innovation, featuring a wide array of performances, including oral folklore, local performing arts, dance forms, and martial arts that encapsulate the artistic spirit of the state.
Attendees will witness stunning displays of traditional forms like Kalaripayattu, Gotipua, Thang Ta, Chhau, and Theyyam, alongside contemporary and international acts. The festival’s expansive program includes proscenium theatre, street performances, and intimate theatre spaces, catering to audiences of all generations and interests.
Chief Minister Khandu emphasized the festival’s significance in preserving Arunachal’s cultural identity while fostering artistic innovation. “The Arunachal Rang Mahotsav is not just an event; it is a movement to protect and promote our heritage while embracing the future of the performing arts,” Khandu stated. He extended an open invitation, urging people to join in celebrating this vibrant artistic spectacle.
ARM ’24 is expected to attract both national and international attention, positioning Arunachal Pradesh as a cultural hub and raising the bar for artistic festivals in the region. With its focus on inclusivity and cultural exchange, the festival promises to create history and leave a lasting impression on the arts landscape of the North East.