The picturesque Ziro Valley came alive with colour, tradition, and cultural pride as the Apatani community celebrated the annual Dree Festival with unprecedented grandeur. Thousands of residents, visitors, community leaders, and government officials joined the festivities, reaffirming the festival’s significance as the Apatanis’ most important agricultural celebration.
The festival featured sacred rituals, community prayers, and cultural performances dedicated to seeking a bountiful harvest, prosperity, and the preservation of indigenous traditions. This year’s celebrations were held across three major venues—Biri Dree Ground, Siilang Ditting Dree Ground in Hija village, and Hong Dree Ground—allowing larger public participation while showcasing different aspects of Apatani culture.
One of the major highlights was the debut of the Apatani Fashion Week, which blended traditional handwoven textiles with contemporary designs, promoting cultural preservation alongside youth creativity. The festival also honoured outstanding students during the 2026 Academic Excellence Awards, recognising academic achievement and encouraging future community leadership.
Traditional music, indigenous sports, cultural dances, and community feasts added to the festive atmosphere, while state leaders and senior officials praised the Apatani community for preserving its rich heritage while embracing progress.
The Dree Festival was also celebrated with equal enthusiasm in Daporijo, Upper Subansiri district, where community members gathered to uphold their traditions. Addressing the event, local leaders highlighted the Apatani community’s discipline, cultural values, and progressive outlook.
Organisers concluded the celebrations by thanking volunteers, artists, and the district administration, while urging younger generations and the global Apatani diaspora to continue preserving the spirit of unity, hospitality, and respect for nature that defines the Dree Festival.
