Tribal Heritage In Arunachal Pradesh

Arunachal is home to 26 major indigenous tribes primarily migrants of Tebeto-Burman stock, who colonized vacant lands in the longitudinal valleys, from the north and the east. It was difficult for them to spread laterally across the land though skillfully crafted cane bridges helped access on the cobweb of turbulent rivers.

The state is a treasure-trove of ethnic diversity and ancient traditions moulded by its geographic setting. Living in the remotest part of the North East these simple, hospitable people are still moored to the traditional lifestyles. Its major Buddhist communities are located along the northern and eastern perimeters. These include the Monpas and Sherdukpens of Bomdila and Tawang in West Kameng and the Membas (Siang). They belong to the Mahayana stream of Buddhism.

The Monpas are skilled weavers, traders and agriculturists who also make indigenous hand-crafted paper from plants discovered amongst the deep jungles. The gentle Sherdukpens are reputed for their folk dances embellished by folk tales and religious themes. Their Yak dance, Deer dance, Ajihamu dance and Eagle dance are mesmerizing. The Khamtis, Singpos and Tangsas (Lohit and Tirap region) are said to have originally migrated from Thailand and Myanmar (Burma) and follow Hinayana Buddhist practices.

The Adis, Akas, Apatanis, Mishis, Nyishis, Mijis still follow traditional tribal forms of worship. Their animist practices are linked to the seasonal and agricultural cycles. They also worship Donyi-Polo, the Sun and Moon gods.

The Tribal Research Centre is deeply involved in the preservation of Arunachal’s tribal cultural expressions such as music, dance, folklore etc.

There are some pockets of Vaishanavism (a Hindu sect) in the inner regions such as the Lohit district which still have Puranic remains located at Bhishmaknagar, the pilgrimage site at Brahma Kund and the ruined Bhalukpong Fort.