The 56th Central Tamla-Dü Festival of the Mishmi community concluded with traditional rituals, cultural performances and large public participation at Tezu in Arunachal Pradesh’s Lohit district, reaffirming the community’s strong commitment to preserving its indigenous faith and ancestral customs. The three-day celebration, held at Khoraliang in Tezu, brought together community leaders, cultural organisations, priests and visitors from different parts of the state.
Arunachal Pradesh Home Minister Mama Natung, who also holds the portfolios of Indigenous Affairs and Public Health Engineering and Water Supply (PHED), attended the closing ceremony as the chief guest. Several dignitaries were present at the event, including Dr. Emi Rumi, President of the Indigenous Faith and Cultural Society of Arunachal Pradesh (IFCSAP), and Chow Noseng Manpang of the Tai Khamti Development Society, along with other community leaders and representatives.
Addressing the gathering, Natung described Tamla-Dü as much more than a cultural celebration. He said the festival represents a deep connection between faith, nature and ancestral heritage, reflecting the spiritual traditions that have guided the Mishmi community for generations. He particularly appreciated the Mishmi people living in remote border areas near the Indo-China frontier, noting that despite geographical challenges, they have continued to safeguard their customs, rituals and traditional belief systems with dedication.
A major highlight of the closing ceremony was the recognition of 446 priests from the Mishmi community. The priests were honoured for their role in preserving sacred rituals, oral traditions and indigenous spiritual knowledge that has largely been passed down through generations without written texts. Community leaders said these priests play an important role not only in conducting religious ceremonies but also in guiding social and moral values within society.
The Tamla-Dü festival grounds witnessed colourful scenes as community members dressed in traditional attire performed dances and participated in spiritual rituals. Cultural troupes presented folk performances that showcased the history, beliefs and lifestyle of the Mishmi people. Among the performances, the traditional Tanggong Dance drew special attention from the audience. The dance, performed in rhythmic patterns, symbolises the wisdom of ancestors and the harmony between human life and nature, which forms a central theme of the community’s belief system.
Ritual ceremonies were also conducted to offer prayers to Lord Jebmalu and Amik Matai, deities revered in the Mishmi faith. Community elders explained that these rituals are performed to seek blessings for peace, prosperity, protection of nature and the well-being of society. The ceremonies reflected the community’s long-standing belief that human life, nature and spirituality are closely connected and must remain in balance.
During the programme, the permanent pandal constructed at the Tamla-Dü festival ground in Tezu was formally inaugurated. Local organisers said the new structure will help host future celebrations more efficiently by providing a permanent venue for rituals, gatherings and cultural activities. Community members welcomed the development, stating that it will strengthen efforts to preserve and promote traditional festivals in an organised manner.
In his address, the Home Minister also reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to protecting indigenous faiths and supporting traditional institutions. He said the government recognises the importance of preserving cultural diversity in Arunachal Pradesh and will continue to extend institutional assistance to ensure that indigenous traditions remain strong. He also emphasised the need to maintain respect and dignity for traditional priests and community elders who play a key role in sustaining cultural identity.
Tamla-Dü, celebrated every year in February, is one of the most significant festivals of the Digaru Mishmi community. The festival symbolises unity, harmony and respect for nature, and it serves as an occasion for families and communities to come together, renew social bonds and offer prayers for collective well-being. Over the years, the festival has grown into an important cultural event that attracts visitors, researchers and cultural enthusiasts interested in indigenous traditions.
