Living Traditions: Festival of Arunachal Pradesh
Schedule
Fri, 06 Mar, 2026 at 06:30 pm to Sat, 07 Mar, 2026 at 06:30 pm
UTC+05:30Location
National Centre for the Performing Arts, NCPA Marg, Nariman Point, Mumbai 400 021. INDIA , Mumbai, India 400021, Maharashtra | Mumbai, MH
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India is one of the most musical and musically diverse regions in the world. This diversity is evident in our folk traditions that change every few miles through the length and breadth of the country. This festival is an endeavour to showcase the folk forms of various states of India.In the 15th edition, the focus is on Arunachal Pradesh, which is among India’s least explored states. Formerly a union territory, Arunachal Pradesh achieved statehood in 1987 and is India’s north-eastern tip, known as the ‘Land of the Rising Sun’. Primarily a mountainous region with lush green forests and deep river valleys, the state shares international borders with Bhutan, Myanmar and Tibet. It is home to about 26 major tribes, including Adi, Galo, Aka, Apatani, Nyishi, Togins and others, each with its unique set of traditions and customs. While the major tribes are followers of two different sects of Buddhism, others follow ancient belief systems indigenous to the region, which include animal worship. Endowed with abundant natural resources, the region has among the highest diversity of mammals and birds in India, and over 500 rare species of orchids.
Agriculture is the mainstay of Arunachal. Its cultural life is dominated by colourful festivals, mainly as a mark of thanksgiving to the gods for a good harvest. These festivals also showcase the artistic skills of various tribes.
Dr. Delong Padung is a folk artiste decorated with the Ustad Bismillah Khan Yuva Puraskar, and is the Chairman of Karpung Karduk Centre for Folk Performing Arts, Arunachal Pradesh. Over two days, under his baton, around 35 artistes from the centre will present different forms of the rich folk performing arts of the Adi tribes of the Eastern Himalayas (Siang valley). Each presentation will be introduced with appropriate sociocultural and aesthetic context.
Additionally, on both days, indigenous artefacts/handicrafts will be on display along with some relevant information.
An NCPA Presentation
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Where is it happening?
National Centre for the Performing Arts, NCPA Marg, Nariman Point, Mumbai 400 021. INDIA , Mumbai, India 400021, Maharashtra, IndiaEvent Location & Nearby Stays:
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