Itanagar, Jan 11: Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu on January 10 emphasised the centrality of indigenous traditions to the state’s cultural identity while attending the golden jubilee celebrations of the Sarok festival of the Aka community at Bana.
Describing the festival as a “living symbol of heritage and continuity”, Khandu said the completion of 50 years marked a moment of pride for the community and reflected traditions that have sustained shared values and beliefs across generations. He highlighted cultural continuity as a key pillar of social cohesion and said indigenous faiths, though diverse in names and rituals, are rooted in closely aligned core principles.
“Our indigenous faith traditions share a common spirit — respect for nature, ancestors and moral balance. Names and rituals may differ, but the core beliefs remain deeply connected,” the chief minister said in a post on X.
Stressing the need to preserve indigenous belief systems, Khandu said safeguarding such traditions was essential to protecting identity and ensuring cultural transmission to future generations. He noted that indigenous faiths must be respected as complete and living belief systems, rather than viewed merely as customs.
Alongside cultural engagement, the chief minister reiterated the government’s development focus in the region, saying he looked forward to interacting with residents and reviewing ongoing development initiatives, reaffirming a commitment to inclusive growth that respects local heritage.
The chief minister was accompanied by Home Minister Mama Natung and local MLA Mohesh Chai.
