HT Correspondent
YINGKIONG, Sept 1: The three-day celebration of Solung Festival 2025 began here on Monday with grandeur and enthusiasm, bringing together the Adi community to showcase its rich cultural heritage and spirit of unity.
According to an official statement, the opening day was marked by traditional rituals, cultural performances, and addresses by distinguished guests.
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The inaugural function was graced by Minister of Civil Aviation, Urban Development and Land Management, Balo Raja, as the chief guest.
Extending his greetings to the people, the Minister expressed happiness at being part of the festival.
In his address, he emphasised that festivals such as Solung should be celebrated in a meaningful way that reflects both cultural pride and social responsibility.
He called upon the youth to remain vigilant against drug abuse, urging that Upper Siang should set an example for other districts to emulate.
Stressing on environmental consciousness, he underlined the importance of cleanliness after the festival.
Describing the Adi community as one of the most intellectual societies, he encouraged them to uphold their traditions while adopting flexibility for progress and development.
The Minister also acknowledged the leadership of chief minister Pema Khandu, describing him as a young and dynamic leader steering Arunachal Pradesh towards inclusive growth.
He further praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision for taking the nation’s development to the next level.
To formally inaugurate the celebrations, Raja performed the traditional ritual of Taku Tabatnam at the general ground, followed by the Solung Anthem presented by the Donyi Polo group of Yingkiong.
On the occasion, he also released the Solung Souvenir Book.
Health Minister and local MLA Alo Libang, addressing the gathering, urged the community to preserve the sanctity of the festival, safeguard cultural identity, and uphold age-old traditions for future generations.
Guest of honour and President of the Upper Siang GB Welfare Association, Akkong Libang, spoke on the mythological origins of the Solung Festival, narrating how the celebration came into practice.
Deputy Commissioner Talo Jerang highlighted the objective of the festival, urging people not to view it as a ritual obligation but as a true celebration of heritage.
Adding further depth to the occasion, ABK President (Upper Siang Unit), Katan Kombo, stressed the importance of protecting the very fabric of Solung celebrations for posterity.
Retired DVO, Dr Emo Lego, also narrated the mythological essence of the festival, enriching the audience with its deeper cultural significance.
Delivering the vote of thanks, Central Solung Celebration Committee, Yingkiong, President Er Nanong Nangkar expressed gratitude to the chief guest, dignitaries, participants, and community members for their wholehearted support in making the event successful.
According to the official statement, the celebrations featured traditional rituals, ponung dances, community feasts, and various cultural presentations, reflecting the vibrancy and unity of the Adi community.
The festival will continue for the next two days with further programmes showcasing tradition, community spirit, and cultural pride.
