Dance and Music : Arunachal Pradesh

The people of Arunachal Pradesh are patrons of dances and music. They dance and sing on important occasions – during festivals and marriages. Dances are different for different tribal groups. They vary from highly stylized religious dance dramas of the Buddhists to the martial steps and colourful performances of the Noctes and Wanchos.

Most of the dances are performed in groups – where both males and females take part. However, in some dances females are not allowed to dance with the male dancers. These dances are Igu dance of the Mishmi priests, war dances of the Adis, Noctes and Wanchos, ritualistic dance of the Buddhist tribes etc.

There are some popular folk dances performed by the people which include Aji Lamu ( Monpa Tribe ), Roppi (  Nishing Tribe ), Hiirii Khaniing ( Apatani Tribe ), Popir ( Adi Tribe ), Pasi Kongki ( Adi ), Chalo ( Nocte Tribe ), Ponung ( Adi Tribe ), Rekham Pada ( Nishing Tribe ), Lion and Peacock dance ( Monpa ) etc. Most of these dances are accompanied by chorus songs.