Donyi Polo Day celebrated in Arunachal’s East Siang, honouring indigenous faith of Tani tribes

The indigenous religion of Donyi-Poloism was celebrated with religious fervour and cultural pride on Donyi Polo Day at the Central Donyi-Polo Gangging and Engo-Takar Dere in Arunachal Pradesh’s East Siang district on the last day of the year.

Organised by the Central Donyi Polo Yelam Kebang (CDPYK), the event brought together members of the Adi community and other Tani tribes to honour their ancient faith, traditions, and collective identity. Donyi Poloism, centred on the worship of Donyi (the Sun) and Polo (the Moon), is widely followed among Tani tribes across Arunachal Pradesh and parts of Assam inhabited by the Mising community.

The celebration began with traditional prayers and rituals, with participation from community elders, youths, and delegates from various walks of life. Rituals symbolising the Sun and the Moon, considered sources of life, guidance, and moral order, were performed, while younger members showcased cultural dances and songs reflecting the community’s close bond with nature.

As part of the programme, elders who have consistently participated in religious activities at the Gangging (temple) and youths actively involved in Dapong—home-to-home prayer practices, were felicitated in recognition of their contributions to preserving and promoting Donyi Poloism. A kitchen facility attached to the Engo-Takar Dere was also inaugurated by local MLA Tapi Darang.

Speaking to the media,Tajom Tasung, President of the Central Donyi Polo Yelam Kebang, highlighted the historical and cultural significance of Donyi Polo Day. He recalled that while the belief system has ancient roots, Donyi Poloism was formally recognised as a religion in 1986, largely due to the efforts of late Talom Rukbo.

“Formal recognition gave our community a stronger sense of unity, cultural pride, and religious identity,” Tasung said, adding that Donyi Polo Day serves as a reminder of shared values rooted in respect for nature and harmony. He also noted that a statue of late Talom Rukbo stands at the Central Donyi Polo Gangging in Pasighat as a tribute to his role in organising and strengthening the faith.

The celebration underscored the community’s continued commitment to preserving its indigenous religion and cultural heritage. For the Adi community and the larger Tani group, Donyi Polo Day remains not just a religious observance but a reaffirmation of identity, tradition, and the enduring relationship between people and the natural world.