LIROMOBA, 5 Jun: A three-day workshop on indigenous crafts and altar-making, being organised by the Department of Indigenous Affairs, commenced at the Donyi Polo Kargu Gamgi here in West Siang district on Friday, with the aim of preserving and promoting indigenous traditions and cultural heritage among the younger generation.
The workshop was inaugurated by Indigenous Faith and Cultural Society of Arunachal Pradesh (IFCSAP) general secretary Maya Murtem, in the presence of SMO Dr Jumri Romin, IFCSAP women’s wing general secretary Mameh Dada, and senior members of Liromoba circle.
The three-day programme focuses on imparting practical knowledge to youths on the preparation of bamboo components that form essential parts of ritualistic altars used in indigenous faith practices. The workshop demonstrates the techniques involved in crafting these individual elements, which will later be assembled into a complete altar structure.
Senior members of the society, including Yorluk Jilen, Marjum Romin, Kepu Kayi, and Bipek Kayi are conducting demonstrations and guiding participants during the workshop.
Speaking at the inaugural programme, Maya Murtem stressed the significance of preserving indigenous identity and traditions in the face of rapid modernisation.
“We should embrace modernisation with our feet rooted in our traditions and faith,” she said.
Dr Romin emphasised the need to preserve indigenous mother tongues and said the responsibility begins at home. He encouraged parents to communicate with their children in local dialects to ensure continuity of linguistic and cultural heritage.
He further observed that the younger generation has a crucial role in safeguarding indigenous traditions, and stated that such workshops help strengthen the movement for cultural preservation.
During the programme, members of the Donyi Polo Kargu Gamgi, led by its president Kige Romin, appealed to the IFCSAP general secretary to facilitate the construction of a prayer hall for the community.
The workshop has drawn enthusiastic participation from local youths and community members committed to preserving indigenous knowledge systems, the IFCSAP informed in a release.
