Itanagar: The cultural vibrancy of Arunachal Pradesh took center stage as the second edition of Bharat Lok Sangeet – Arunachal Utsav 2025 commenced at Poi Pee Mau Tai Ground in Namsai on Sunday evening.
The grand festival, organized by the Government of Arunachal Pradesh under the Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat initiative, serves as a tribute to India’s rich folk traditions while strengthening cultural ties and preserving the indigenous identity of the state.
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 emphasized the role of folk music and dance as an integral link between generations, preserving history and strengthening community bonds. Highlighting the festival’s theme of “Unity in Diversity,” he lauded its ability to showcase Arunachal’s indigenous folk heritage alongside performances from various Indian states and international participants from Bhutan and Thailand. The event, he noted, not only celebrates Arunachal’s artistic brilliance but also solidifies the state’s role in global cultural diplomacy.
The festival boasts an impressive lineup, with 15 cultural troupes representing indigenous communities of Arunachal Pradesh, including the Adi, Aka Hrusso, Apatani, Idu Mishmi, Memba, Monpa, Nyishi, Tai Khamti, and Ollo, among others. Adding to the diversity, folk artists from Himachal Pradesh, Karnataka, and Manipur have joined the celebration, enriching the event with a dynamic mix of traditions. The participation of Bhutanese and Thai cultural groups further amplifies the festival’s scope, fostering cross-border cultural exchanges that reinforce the timeless and universal appeal of folk traditions.
Deputy CM Mein took the opportunity to acknowledge Arunachal’s cultural icons, particularly the Tai Khamti cultural troupe, which has gained national recognition through performances at prestigious events like the Ashtalakshmi Mahotsav and the Republic Day parade in New Delhi. Their contribution to a Guinness World Record-winning performance, as part of a 5,000-artist ensemble, underscored Arunachal Pradesh’s artistic excellence on an international platform. Recognizing their dedication to cultural preservation, Mein proposed that the troupe be felicitated with certificates at the ongoing festival as a mark of appreciation.
Further highlighting Arunachal’s growing international recognition, Mein announced that cultural troupes from the state would soon participate in the North East Festival in Singapore. This initiative aligns with the government’s commitment to providing global platforms for folk traditions, ensuring that young artists remain deeply rooted in their heritage while gaining international exposure.
Reaffirming the government’s dedication to nurturing traditional art forms, Mein emphasized the continued support extended through the Department of Art & Culture. By providing resources, platforms, and encouragement to cultural practitioners, the state aims to preserve, evolve, and promote its folk heritage to a broader audience. He also praised the efforts of MLA Oken Tayeng, who, as President of the Arunachal Chapter of INTACH (Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage), has been instrumental in the conservation of indigenous cultural and architectural heritage. Expressing hope that such initiatives would be strengthened, Mein stressed the importance of preserving traditional knowledge for future generations.
As Bharat Lok Sangeet – Arunachal Utsav 2025 unfolds, it stands as a testament to Arunachal Pradesh’s cultural resilience, artistic richness, and global reach. Beyond being a festival, it represents a profound commitment to preserving folk traditions while fostering a spirit of shared heritage and mutual appreciation. Through music, dance, and artistic expression, the event serves as a bridge between the past and the future, ensuring that Arunachal’s vibrant cultural tapestry remains a source of pride on both national and international platforms.
The event witnessed an enthusiastic response from audiences and was graced by the presence of Ministers Wangki Lowang, Dasanglu Pul, Gabriel D. Wangsu, Advisors cum MLAs Zingnu Namchoom and Dr. Mohesh Chai, along with MLAs Mutchu Mithi, Chakat Aboh, Mopi Mihu, Nikh Kamin, Nyabi Jini, Puinnyo Apum, Topin Ete, and Likha Soni, among others.