‘Mystic Arunachal’ book launched, showcasing indigenous stories through fiction

A new book capturing the cultural essence of Arunachal Pradesh was officially launched today by Governor Lt. General KT Parnaik (Retd.) and Chief Minister Pema Khandu at the Chief Minister’s Conference Hall. Titled Mystic Arunachal – Tales from India’s Hidden Frontier, the book is authored by Major Rahul Jha, Sena Medal, who currently serves as Aide-de-Camp to the Governor.

 

The publication presents ten fictional stories inspired by the lived experiences, traditions, and oral histories of Arunachal’s diverse tribal communities. It is the result of over two years of travel and research across the state, blending narrative storytelling with visual documentation.

 

Speaking at the launch, Governor Parnaik praised Major Jha for “going beyond his military role” to authentically represent the “silent resilience and cultural richness” of the region. Chief Minister Khandu also commended the author for his creative approach to preserving indigenous heritage.

 

Major Jha, who has served in the Indian Army for nearly a decade, described the book as a reflection of his personal journey. “As a soldier, I was trained to observe landscapes, but in Arunachal, I learned to listen to them,” he said. His travels took him from Tawang’s high mountains to the remote villages of Anini, observing customs that remain largely undocumented.

 

According to Jha, the book is not a travelogue but a fictionalised tribute grounded in real cultural practices. Each story is accompanied by visuals and contextual notes aimed at educating readers and fostering respect for the region’s heritage.

 

He expressed hope that Mystic Arunachal will serve as a bridge between modern readers and traditional wisdom, especially for younger generations unfamiliar with the region’s cultural depth.