LEKANG, Sep 13: The vibrant traditions and cultural heritage of the Adi community came alive at Lekang in Namsai district on Sunday as the Solung Festival was celebrated with traditional fervour, drawing elected representatives, community leaders, cultural groups and people from across the area in a spirited celebration of identity, tradition and community unity.
Rajya Sabha MP Tai Tagak attended the programme as chief guest, while Forest & Environment, Mining and DoTCL Minister Wangki Lowang was the guest of honour. Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein and Women and Child Development Minister Dasanglu Pul attended as special guests.
MLAs Mohesh Chai, Mutchu Mithi, Ninong Ering, Tapi Darang, Laisam Simai and Puinnyo Apum were among those present. The gathering also included Namsai Zilla Parishad Chairperson Chow Sujana Namchoom, Zilla Parishad members, Deputy Commissioner Lobsang Tsering, Superintendent of Police, Namsai, heads of departments, representatives of community-based organisations and other public representatives.
Speaking on the occasion, Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein emphasised the need to protect Arunachal Pradesh’s indigenous heritage and cultural traditions. He urged the younger generation to remain connected with their cultural roots and traditional values while contributing to the State’s development.
Minister Dasanglu Pul described Solung as a reflection of the Adi community’s cultural identity, traditions and collective values.
MP Tai Tagak congratulated the people on the occasion and said Solung helped strengthen community bonds and pass traditional knowledge and practices on to younger generations. He called for continued efforts to protect the State’s indigenous traditions and cultural identity amid changing times.
Extending Solung greetings to the people, Minister Wangki Lowang stressed the importance of collective efforts to preserve the community’s cultural heritage.
Ninong Ering highlighted the cultural and social importance of Solung and called for the preservation of the traditional knowledge, customs and practices associated with the festival.
The celebration featured traditional cultural presentations, indigenous performances and community activities, creating an atmosphere of festivity and togetherness while reinforcing social harmony and community bonds.