Arunachal Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein has called for renewed collective commitment to safeguarding indigenous traditions, urging communities to actively preserve and promote their rich cultural heritage amid rapid modernization.
Speaking as the chief guest at the grand Shapawng Yawng Manau Poi 2026 festival in Miao, Changlang district, Mein highlighted the significance of the Singpho community’s iconic festival as a living symbol of unity, identity, and ancestral pride. The event, which celebrates the traditional New Year and harvest thanksgiving of the Singpho people, featured vibrant cultural performances, traditional dances, music, and community feasts, drawing large crowds from across the region.
In his address, the Deputy CM emphasized that festivals like Manau Poi are more than celebrations—they serve as vital platforms for transmitting values, language, customs, and oral histories to younger generations. He stressed the importance of protecting these elements in the face of globalization and changing lifestyles, warning that neglect could lead to irreversible loss of unique tribal identities.
Mein praised the organizing committee and local Singpho leaders for their dedication in hosting the festival with grandeur and authenticity. He assured continued government support for such cultural initiatives, including infrastructure development for Miao and surrounding areas to better facilitate tourism and community events.
The festival also witnessed participation from various dignitaries, cultural troupes, and visitors, reinforcing inter-community harmony and showcasing Arunachal Pradesh’s extraordinary diversity. Traditional Singpho attire, rhythmic dances accompanied by gongs and drums, and shared feasts created an atmosphere of joy and togetherness.
This edition of Shapawng Yawng Manau Poi not only reaffirmed the vitality of indigenous festivals but also served as a powerful reminder of the state’s ongoing efforts to integrate cultural preservation with sustainable development in Northeast India.
Tags: Arunachal Pradesh Festival, Shapawng Yawng Manau Poi, Singpho Community, Chowna Mein Speech, Cultural Preservation Arunachal, Miao Changlang Event, Indigenous Traditions Northeast, Tribal New Year Celebration, Arunachal Cultural Heritage, Northeast India Festivals
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