The Bharat Lok Sangeet – Arunachal Utsav 2025 commenced with grandeur at the Poi Pee Mau Tai Ground in Namsai, Arunachal Pradesh, celebrating the vibrant folk traditions and cultural heritage of the region. The festival, which highlights the essence of India’s unity in diversity, brings together artists from across the country and international participants from Bhutan and Thailand.
Arunachal Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein, in his address, underscored the importance of such cultural events in preserving and promoting indigenous art forms. He emphasized that the festival is not just a celebration but a movement to sustain the state’s rich traditions for future generations.
A Platform for Cultural Diplomacy
The Arunachal Utsav 2025 is more than a regional festival; it serves as a platform for global cultural diplomacy. The participation of international performers reflects Arunachal Pradesh’s growing prominence in the global cultural landscape.
Deputy CM Chowna Mein stated, “The folk music and dance traditions of Arunachal Pradesh are not merely performances; they are living legacies that connect communities across generations. By showcasing our rich cultural heritage on an international stage, we are strengthening our global identity.”
Highlighting the importance of cultural exchange, he revealed that cultural troupes from Arunachal Pradesh are set to perform at the upcoming North East Festival in Singapore. This initiative underscores the growing international recognition of the region’s artistic heritage.
Empowering Young Artists as Cultural Custodians
The Deputy CM further stressed the crucial role of young artists in preserving and carrying forward traditional art forms. He described them as the custodians of Arunachal Pradesh’s heritage, ensuring that the region’s folk traditions remain alive and evolve with time.
He reiterated the state government’s commitment to nurturing local talent, stating, “Through continuous support from the Department of Arts and Culture, we are providing young artists with the necessary resources and platforms to showcase their skills.”
The government is also working towards adapting traditional art forms to contemporary platforms, allowing them to reach a broader audience across India and the world.
Government’s Commitment to Cultural Preservation
The Arunachal Pradesh government has implemented several initiatives to safeguard and promote indigenous art forms. These include:
- Financial Aid for Folk Artists – The government has introduced schemes that provide financial assistance to traditional artists, enabling them to sustain their craft.
- Cultural Exchange Programs – By facilitating cross-border cultural interactions, the state is fostering greater recognition of its heritage.
- Inclusion of Folk Arts in Education – Efforts are being made to incorporate local cultural traditions into school curricula, ensuring that younger generations stay connected to their roots.
- Infrastructure Development for Cultural Events – The government is investing in building cultural centers and performance spaces to support artists.
Mein emphasized that such measures will help traditional art forms thrive while adapting to modern influences.
A Grand Celebration of India’s Cultural Diversity
The Bharat Lok Sangeet – Arunachal Utsav 2025 is unique in its scope, featuring a diverse array of performances from different parts of India. Apart from Arunachal Pradesh’s own vibrant traditions, the festival showcases folk performances from Assam, Manipur, Nagaland, and other northeastern states.
The event also highlights the deep-rooted cultural ties between Arunachal Pradesh and neighboring countries. Performers from Bhutan and Thailand have added a global dimension to the festival, reflecting the shared cultural heritage of Southeast Asia.
The Future of Arunachal Pradesh’s Cultural Heritage
With increasing global attention on Arunachal Pradesh’s folk traditions, the government’s proactive initiatives are ensuring that young artists receive the necessary exposure and support. By preserving the past while embracing the future, Arunachal Pradesh is positioning itself as a hub for cultural innovation and heritage conservation.
Deputy CM Chowna Mein concluded, “Our government is committed to ensuring that our folk arts and traditions do not fade away but instead shine on global platforms. Our young artists are the torchbearers of this movement, and through initiatives like Arunachal Utsav, we are empowering them to carry our legacy forward.”
