Arunachal indigenous priests showcase ritual power on association’s foundation day

Indigenous priests from across Arunachal Pradesh came together to display their traditional ritual practices as the All Arunachal Pradesh Priest Welfare Association (AAPPWA) marked its 20th Foundation-cum-Convention Day at Nyokum Lapang ground in Itanagar. 

The celebration highlighted the cultural significance of the priesthood in preserving the state’s indigenous identity.

The event was graced by Arunachal Pradesh Home Minister Mama Natung as the chief guest, with Dumporijo MLA Rode Bui as guest of honour. Kamle Zilla Parishad Chairperson Biri Shanti, Itanagar Municipal Corporation Mayor Tamme Phassang, Director of Indigenous Affairs Sokhep Kri, Assistant Director Taw Takar, AAPPWA president Tatung Tagar, general secretary Biri Tara, IMC corporator Yukar Yaro, IPR organising secretary Gungli Chapo, and Kipa Tarish were also present.

Also Read: Arunachal CM inaugurates artisan-cum-handicraft exhibition centre in Chimpu

Priests from all 28 districts of the state participated in the programme, performing age-old indigenous rituals in front of the gathering. Dignitaries and participants lauded the Department of Indigenous Affairs for formally recognising the association and its role in safeguarding Arunachal Pradesh’s spiritual and cultural heritage.

Addressing the gathering, Home Minister Mama Natung urged the priests to remain steadfast in protecting their status, healing, and praying in the indigenous manner through traditional rituals. He assured that the state government would ensure timely honorarium distribution to all recognised priests, reaffirming the administration’s commitment to supporting them.

The 20th foundation day celebration underscored AAPPWA’s two-decade-long journey in advocating for the rights and recognition of indigenous priests while strengthening the cultural roots of Arunachal Pradesh.