Arunachal health minister calls for 'ghar wapsi' of people who left Doni Polo faith

In a move to preserve and promote the indigenous faith and cultural heritage of Arunachal Pradesh, Health and Family Welfare Minister Biyuram Wahge inaugurated the newly established Nyedar Namlo in Ngoleko village, Pakke Kessang district. The temple, dedicated to the indigenous Tani community’s Donyi-Polo faith, was built with a grant of Rs10 lakh from the government and Rs 20 lakh contributed by the faith's followers.  

The event, which showcased the state’s commitment to cultural preservation, was attended by Dr. Emi Rumi, President of the Indigenous Faith & Cultural Society of Arunachal Pradesh (IFSCAP), as the Guest of Honour, and R.T. Tara, President of Nyishi Nyidung Mwngjwng Rallung (NNMR), as a special guest.  

Nyedar Namlos are central to the worship practices of the Tani people, who venerate Donyi (the Sun) and Polo (the Moon) as their deities. Speaking at the inauguration, Minister Wahge highlighted the importance of preserving the ancestral faith and culture. He appealed for the "Ghar Wapsi" (homecoming) of those who had converted to other religions, urging them to reconnect with their roots.  

"We can follow any faith—be it Christianity, Islam, or others—but we must not forget our origin and roots," Wahge said. "I call upon those who have left our indigenous faith to return and rediscover their heritage."  

Dr. Emi Rumi emphasized that the establishment of Nyedar Namlos is a proactive effort to organize and propagate the Donyi-Polo faith. He remarked, "Although some have converted to other religions, Arunachal remains the only state in the Northeast where indigenous faith and culture thrive actively, unlike in Meghalaya, Nagaland, or Mizoram, where they are confined to museums."  

Addressing past practices, Rumi noted efforts to modernize and adapt the faith to contemporary times. "Earlier, rituals like 'yullo'—performed for events such as accidents, snake bites, or miscarriages—had economic repercussions on the community. With advancements in healthcare and education, we are working to phase out such practices while retaining the essence of our traditions," he added.  

The inauguration of the Ngoleko Nyedar Namlo marks a significant step towards fostering unity and reviving the indigenous culture of Arunachal Pradesh.