Donggin, one of the significant festivals
of Arunachal Pradesh particularly celebrated by the Bori or Adi community, began
on February 2 and end on February 5. The festivities include prayers to numerous
deities, including those of domestic animals for blessings and bountiful
harvests, alongside vibrant cultural practices.
Tracing back its recent history, the
festival gained broader recognition through the efforts of Tassor Taring in
1978 and later it was formalised by the then Arunachal Pradesh Government in
1995.
Significance Of Each Day:
- BINTER sees women gathering grains and
feasting. - ESING EKO sees boys collecting firewood,
followed by shared rice beer. - SILING TANON involves cutting a special
tree for festival use. - SOKANG RANON witnesses the construction
of an altar for Mithun sacrifice. - SOBO PANON is marked by animal
sacrifices and priestly chants. - GUMBO concludes festivities with
decorated bamboo and blessings.
Donggin’s fixed date and elaborate
rituals reflect a rich cultural tapestry, blending tradition with communal
celebration and gratitude.
On the festive occasion, Arunachal
Pradesh Governor Lt Gen KT Parnaik and Chief Minister Pema Khandu extended
their warm greetings to the people and exuded hope the festivity would bring peace
and prosperity for all.
Noting that Donggin Festival marks the
beginning of the new agro-horticultural season, the Governor said the rituals and
merry making associated with the festival inspire all to sow and cultivate with
zeal and fest.
The Governor stated, “Festivals like
these not only hold historical and traditional value but also serve as
catalysts for community cohesion and the preservation of cultural heritage. I
trust that this festival coming down from ages and handed down from generation
to generation will continue to propagate the rich emotional, cultural and
social traditions of the Adi community.”
CM Khandu wrote in X, “Donggin festival
marks not only the beginning of agro-horticultural season but also demonstrates
our shared cultural diversity and vibrancy. My special compliments to our Adi
community sisters and brothers for preserving their great traditions with so
much dedication and commitment. Let’s celebrate the festival with usual fervour
and enthusiasm in an ambience of complete bonhomie and mutual trust.”
