The first-ever Arunachal GI Mahotsav 2025 came to a close in New Delhi, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Arunachal Pradesh. The three-day festival aimed to promote the state’s Geographical Indication (GI) products and featured 20 officially recognized items, with a roadmap to increase this number to 50 by 2029. Union Minister for Tourism Gajendra Singh Shekhawat attended the closing ceremony, highlighting the significance of the event in preserving and promoting Arunachal’s indigenous craftsmanship, traditional agriculture, and cultural wealth.
The festival, organized by the Arunachal Pradesh government, took place at Select Citywalk Mall under the theme “Craft, Cuisine, and Culture”, providing a platform to market the state’s unique products. The event showcased a wide array of handloom textiles, handicrafts, agricultural goods, and regional beverages, giving Delhiites a glimpse into the state’s thriving artisanal traditions. Traditional handicrafts, including Monpa handmade paper, Wancho wooden crafts, and the region’s iconic Dao (traditional sword), took center stage, while visitors engaged with local artisans and sampled traditional brews like Adi Apong (rice beer) and Marua Apo (millet-based alcohol).
The festival blended commerce with entertainment, drawing massive crowds with live demonstrations by weavers and artisans, food tasting events, and cultural performances. Traditional dances like Aji Lhamu, Snow Lion, and Woraang folk dance captivated audiences, while evening musical performances by Arunachal’s top artists, including Taba Chake, Dobom Doji Collective, and Bollywood singer Rito Riba, added a modern touch to the festivities. Pema Norbu Thongchi, the festival’s officer-in-charge, revealed that the Tourism Department is actively working to register additional GI products, including Nyishi textiles, Galo textiles, and Arunachal honey, further boosting the state’s cultural and economic presence.
Many attendees expressed delight at experiencing Arunachal’s culture, traditions, and craftsmanship firsthand, with some urging others to explore the state’s pristine landscapes and unique heritage, along with the broader northeastern region. Renowned journalist Dibang, who attended the festival, praised the initiative, stating, “I am thrilled to see this festival bring Arunachal’s rich culture, traditions, and products to the people of Delhi. I appreciate the Chief Minister’s efforts to make this an annual calendar event. Having grown up in Arunachal, I know how invaluable this heritage is.”
The Arunachal GI Mahotsav 2025 marked a pioneering step in brand-building and cultural exchange, fostering stronger ties between Arunachal Pradesh and the rest of India, while ensuring that its indigenous products gain national and global recognition. With its unique blend of culture, cuisine, and commerce, the festival has set the stage for a brighter future for the region’s artisans, farmers, and entrepreneurs, as well as for those who are eager to experience the rich heritage of Arunachal Pradesh.
Original Source: https://www.indiatodayne.in/arunachal-pradesh/video/arunachal-gi-mahotsav-2025-concludes-in-delhi-showcasing-20-gi-products-and-cultural-heritage-1178515-2025-03-03?utm_source=rssfeed
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Publish Date: 2025-03-03 18:17:00
