Apatanis celebrate Dree festival across Arunachal with grandeur and devotion

The Apatani community of Arunachal Pradesh came together in vibrant celebration of the unique agricultural festival Dree, marked with joy and traditional fervour across the state, especially in Ziro Valley and the Capital Complex.

Dree, one of the most significant festivals of the Apatani tribe, is observed annually to seek divine blessings for a bountiful harvest and protection against drought and famine. This year, despite heavy rain, the festival witnessed enthusiastic participation in various districts, symbolizing the community’s deep-rooted connection to their culture and agricultural traditions.

The central celebration at 2 Kilo, Itanagar was graced by Capital MLA Techi Kaso as the Chief Guest and Capital Deputy Commissioner Toko Babu as the Guest of Honour. SP Naharlagun Neelam Nega and SP Itanagar Jummar Basar also attended, showing their solidarity with the community.

The festivities began with the hoisting of the Dree flag and rendition of the Dree Anthem, followed by a ceremonial reading of the Dree Mythology, which outlines the spiritual significance of the festival. The Apatani Career Guidance Forum felicitated meritorious students, and the Popi Sarmi Society released a new audio album, adding a creative touch to the celebration.

Speaking on the occasion, MLA Techi Kaso emphasized the importance of festivals in preserving culture, saying, “Our identity is rooted in our culture. If we lose our culture, we lose our identity. Each tribe in Arunachal must protect its heritage while embracing the spirit of Unity in Diversity.”

SP Jummar Basar stressed the role of modern technology in enhancing agricultural productivity without losing cultural values. “We must not forget our roots,” he said, adding, “Love is more powerful than hatred.”

SP Neelam Nega urged the youth to draw inspiration from the Apatani community’s discipline and cultural preservation, cautioning them against the threat of drug abuse.

The festival is deeply spiritual for the Apatanis, aimed at invoking deities to ensure good monsoon, fertility, and protection from famine. It involves traditional rites performed by village priests, including the sacrifice of mithun, animals, and eggs, followed by community feasts with Dree Taku (cucumber) and millet/rice beer (Dree ‘O’). The celebration is further elevated by folk dances like Daminda, traditional games, and literary and musical competitions, showcasing the rich cultural tapestry of the Apatanis.

Senior citizen Dani Salu, speaking to India Today NE, elaborated on the spiritual context of the Dree festival, calling it “a prayer to the divine for humanity’s survival through agriculture.”

Apatani women, historically known for their beauty, were once subjected to tattooing as a protective measure against kidnappings by men of other tribes. These distinctive tattoos—on the forehead, nose, and chin—were a symbolic defense during the NEFA era, a practice discontinued after Indira Gandhi’s visit to Ziro in 1972.

The Ziro Valley, home to the Apatani people, is considered one of India’s most picturesque locations, known for its layered paddy landscapes, indigenous wet rice cultivation, and cultural festivals. Despite their ancient techniques, Apatanis have mastered advanced agricultural practices without the aid of modern technology.

The Dree Festival, observed annually from July 4 to 7, not only unites the community in prayer but also celebrates their enduring commitment to sustainability, tradition, and unity.