Arunachal Rang Mahotsav celebrates northeast theatre with Mishmi folk tales

The International Arunachal Rang Mahotsav reached its ninth day in Itanagar, featuring performances by celebrated artists including Shekhar Suman and Ill Arun. 

The third edition of the festival, which began with 32 plays and artists from across the globe, is set to conclude on December 6, marking a significant milestone for theatre in Northeast India.

Among the highlights was “OLA OLA,” a Mishmi community play that drew large audiences. Performed by 18 young artists from Anjaw, the play brought three compelling Mishmi folk tales to life — the clash of Hutung and Kesha Kama, the origin of the first ritual, and the enchanting story of a mermaid who gifted the community its distinctive textile patterns.

Also Read: Tangsa community’s ‘Moh Mol’ play mesmerises audience at Arunachal Rang Mahotsav

Directed by Oasis Sougaijam, NSD alumnus and director at Umbilical Theatre, the production showcased the vibrancy and depth of Mishmi cultural heritage. Sokhep Kri, Director of Indigenous Affairs, praised the play for interweaving multiple traditional stories that explore agriculture, rituals, and the eternal struggle between gods and demons, highlighting the origin of Mishmi textile designs as a particularly striking element.

Renowned social influencer Sita Samnam played the role of the Jal Pari (mermaid) and expressed her appreciation for the support provided by Minister Dasanglu Pul, a member of the Mishmi community, in facilitating the play and arranging logistics for the artists.

The festival continues to serve as a platform to celebrate indigenous art forms while fostering cultural exchange between local and international theatre artists, bringing the rich traditions of Northeast India to national and global attention.