HT Correspondent
ITANAGAR, Aug 22: Indigenous priests, led by Nangram Kani, called on the Governor of Arunachal Pradesh, Lt General KT Parnaik, (Retd), at Raj Bhavan here on Friday and engaged in a wide-ranging discussion on the preservation and promotion of indigenous culture and traditions.
According to an official statement, the Governor interacted at length with the visiting priests, listening to their experiences and concerns, and gaining insights into the challenges they encounter in protecting age-old practices amid the rapid pace of modernisation.
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He acknowledged the significant role played by indigenous priests in upholding the spiritual and cultural fabric of Arunachal Pradesh, describing them as “custodians of tribal wisdom and spiritual heritage, entrusted with the god-gifted responsibility of carrying forward the cultural legacy.”
The Governor advised the priests to remain steadfast in safeguarding their traditions, while also adapting to the needs of contemporary society.
He stressed that rituals should not only be rooted in tradition but also carry scientific reasoning and relevance, ensuring that they continue to serve society in a positive and constructive manner.
Highlighting the importance of systematic preservation, the Governor underscored the need for careful documentation of indigenous rituals, oral traditions, and cultural practices so that future generations can inherit the richness of their heritage.
He observed that such efforts would not only strengthen the identity of tribal communities but also provide a valuable cultural resource in the face of rapid social and technological changes.
As part of his suggestions, the Governor proposed the establishment of an institutionalised training and teaching centre dedicated to indigenous faiths in Arunachal Pradesh.
He said such a centre would serve as a structured platform for imparting sacred knowledge, training future generations of priests, and sustaining indigenous practices in a more organised and sustainable way.
This, he noted, would ensure that tribal rituals, values, and spiritual traditions are preserved with authenticity while being accessible to younger members of the community.
The Governor further encouraged the priests to inspire their people to continue living in harmony with nature, protecting forests, flora, and fauna, and promoting a way of life that reflects deep respect for the environment.
He emphasised that this approach to living, which is embedded in indigenous traditions, aligns closely with modern concerns for ecological balance and sustainability.
He also reminded the priests that their guidance and advice must always aim to strengthen unity, foster peace, and encourage sustainable living in society.
By doing so, he said, the values enshrined in indigenous faiths would continue to serve as a source of strength, pride, and identity for the people of Arunachal Pradesh.
The official statement described the meeting as an important step in reinforcing the role of indigenous faiths in the cultural life of the state.
It also highlighted the Governor’s call for blending tradition with scientific thought and modern approaches, ensuring that indigenous practices remain relevant and continue to benefit future generations.
