Arunachal Pradesh Dances

The zeal of the people of Arunachal Pradesh to live and their subsequent joy is reflected in their dances. Whether it is festivities, rituals or sheer recreational purpose, dances are the sole resort the people take to. While the profound Buddhist dance dramas with its exquisite style stand on one extreme the simplified, hueful and the gracious performances of the Wanchos and the Noctes stand on the other extreme with their martial steps. Both the men and the women folk participate in the group dances of Arunachal Pradesh. The women folk, however, are barred from relishing the magic of the Igu dance danced by the Mishmi priests, the war dances that of the Noctes, the Adis and the Wanchos and the ritualistic dance belonging to the Buddhist tribes. It is because of the sole reason that these are specifically male dance forms. The major folk dances are :

• Aji Lamu (Monpa Tribe)
• Hiirii Khaniing (Apatani Tribe)
• Pasi Kongki (Adi Tribe)
• Ponung (Adi Tribe)
• Rekham Pada(Nishing Tribe)
• Lion and Peacock dance (Monpa Tribe)
• Roppi (Nishing Tribe)
• Popir (Adi Tribe)
• Chalo (Nocte Tribe), etc.

A chorus has to accompany the dances. The Monpas, not only do perform Monastic dances but also other types such as Yak dance, Aji Lhamu, lion & peacock, pertaining to other occasions. The Monastic dances are performed during the Torgya festival continuously for 3 days. The Adis developed the dance into a major art form for recreational and entertainment purposes. Absolute rhythmic unison marks the “Phoning dance” of this region and the uniform movements of the girls is an add-on. The Tagins and Nishis belonging to the Lower and the Upper Subansiri Districts perform similar group dance wearing colourful costumes.