Animal sacrifices are a common ritual in most of the festivals,
particularly in the non-Bodic tribes. The festivals have
been firmly blended with the lifestyle of the people of
Arunachal Pradesh. For some communities like the Mijis these
are occasions to bring all people together who might otherwise
be scattered in far flung villages. This serves as a reminder
of the richness of their cultural heritage.
The spring time festivals are celebrated during the period
from January to April by the different groups. In the celebration
of these festivals, the religious rites and the sacrifices
are generally performed by their priests assisted by some
select male members.
Appeasement of the deities who control the peace and prosperity
of the people is the thought behind the six day celebrations
of the Reh festival, essentially associated with the Idu
Mishmis. The festival comes to an end with great fanfare
and the priest dance performed during the six days is its
special attraction.
Another is the Khan festival, an occasion for the reunion
of the people. Besides the usual festivities, the significance
of the festival lies in the ceremony whereby the priest
ties a piece of wool around everybody's neck. The belief
is that the enchanted thread will bring good luck to each
of them.
Sangken festival is an occasion to bathe the images of
Lord Buddha ceremoniously. Thsi also heralds the New Year
and people sprinkle water on each other as a sign of merriment.
One of the groups celebrates Mopin for wealth, prosperity,
good health and universal happiness. Smearing of rice powder
on each others' faces marks the beginning of the festival
which is celebrated for five days. The Mol festival of the
Tangsas is also celebrated for three days to welcome the
New Year.
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