Arunachal's Singpho community celebrates Shapawng Yaung Manau Poi festival

The Singpho community in Arunachal Pradesh celebrated its traditional cultural festival, Shapawng Yaung Manau Poi, with a four-day grand event in Namsai district’s Nampong village. The festival brought together Singpho people from across India and Myanmar, highlighting their cultural unity and heritage.

Shapawng Yaung Manau Poi is an important annual festival for the Singpho tribe, honoring their ancestral forefather, Shapawng Yaung. The term "Poi" signifies a festival, while "Manau" refers to dance, making this a dance festival dedicated to their lineage.

The event featured traditional dances, rituals, and cultural performances, showcasing the vibrant traditions of the community. The festival saw participation from Singpho groups residing in Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, and beyond, along with guests from Myanmar.

According to organizers, the festival not only preserves Singpho traditions but also strengthens cross-border cultural ties. It serves as a platform to pass on heritage and identity to younger generations while promoting cultural tourism in Arunachal Pradesh.