From A Correspondent
PASIGHAT, Sep 9: The 60th Central Solung Festival commenced today with traditional rituals and cultural performances, amidst the presence of generations of the Adi community to celebrate its rich heritage, agricultural traditions and collective identity.
Jonai (Assam) MLA graced the inaugural celebration as chief guest, while ex-MLA (Nari-Koyu) Kento Rina as guest of honour.
At the outset, the programme saw the opening of the festival stall, traditional rituals, unfurling of the Solung flag and a community Po:nung.
Speaking on the occasion, Central Solung president Jorsing Moyong highlighted the historical importance of Solung and its deep connection with the traditional way of life of the Adi people.
Moyong spoke about the journey of the Solung celebration and how the festival has continued to be preserved and carried forward through successive generations. He emphasised that Solung is deeply rooted in the community's agricultural practices, traditional knowledge, social values and relationship with nature.
Moyong encouraged the younger generation to actively participate in Solung and understand the meaning behind its rituals, songs, dances and traditional practices. He underlined the need to ensure that modernisation and technological advancement do not lead to the gradual disappearance of indigenous knowledge.
The celebration later featured a public function, community feast and cultural competitions involving young participants. Solo and group dance performances highlighted the enthusiasm of the younger generation while providing a platform to showcase traditional and contemporary expressions of Adi culture.
Addressing the gathering, MLA Pegu delivered a strong message on the need to protect indigenous culture at a time when globalisation, the internet and rapid technological changes are transforming the way younger generations consume information and entertainment.
He called upon the community to recognise, encourage and honour its own artists, describing them as important carriers of culture who can help transmit indigenous traditions to future generations.
Speaking on issues concerning land and community interests, Pegu stressed that matters affecting the Tani people should not be reduced to disputes between political or administrative boundaries. He called for collective discussion and appropriate resolutions through an apex-level body representing the community.