Arunachal Rang Mahotsav 2025 – Showcasing Arunachal Pradesh on the Global Theatre Stage
The third edition of the Arunachal Rang Mahotsav (ARM) 2025 commenced on November 24, 2025, at the DK Convention Centre, IG Park, Itanagar, marking a significant milestone in the cultural journey of Arunachal Pradesh. Emerging as the largest international theatre festival in Northeast India, ARM 2025 reaffirmed the State’s growing stature as a vibrant hub for theatre, creativity, and global cultural collaboration.
Organised by the Government of Arunachal Pradesh through the Department of Art & Culture, the festival brought together theatre practitioners, cultural thinkers, and artists from 10 countries, featuring over 30 plays, workshops, and performances spread across 14 days, concluding on December 6, 2025.
A Grand Opening with Global Participation
The festival was inaugurated by Chief Minister Pema Khandu, amidst a packed auditorium of theatre professionals, students, artists, and international delegates. The opening ceremony was graced by Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein, Tourism & Education Minister Pasang Dorjee Sona, and renowned actor and Festival Ambassador Adil Hussain.
Distinguished guests included Sophie Rogan, Second Secretary at the Embassy of Ireland in India; Bente Wolff, Director (India) of the Danish Cultural Institute; veteran theatre educator Ashok Bhagat; acclaimed actress Mita Vasisht; Prof. Magdalena Filipzcuk; and artists from Denmark, Ireland, and Spain, underlining the festival’s truly international character.
The festival opened with the evocative production “Robin & Jummi”, setting a powerful artistic tone for the days ahead. A major highlight of the evening was the unveiling of the official festival anthem “Arunachal Humara” performed by members of Roots Arunachal, infusing the festival with pride and cultural resonance.
Theatre as a Universal Language
Addressing the gathering, Chief Minister described art and theatre as a universal language capable of bridging communities and cultures. He highlighted how platforms like Arunachal Rang Mahotsav reflect the State’s cultural diversity while strengthening national and global connections. He also acknowledged the role of the festival in nurturing youth talent and aligning with broader initiatives under the “Arunachal: Ek Safarnama” campaign, which promotes music, sports, fashion, and cultural entrepreneurship.
Deputy Chief Minister traced the origins of the festival to the golden jubilee celebrations of the Arunachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly, noting how ARM has rapidly evolved into a beacon for theatre in the Northeast. He credited the dedication of the organising team and Festival Director Riken Ngomle for transforming ARM into a platform of international relevance.
Festival Ambassador underscored the irreplaceable emotional depth of theatre, observing that while technology and artificial intelligence may reshape cinema, theatre will always remain rooted in empathy, compassion, and human honesty. He lauded the State Government’s commitment to the arts, calling the scale and vision of the festival “inspiring” for the region.
Celebrating Tradition, Innovation, and Indigenous Narratives
ARM 2025 showcased a rich blend of traditional and contemporary performances, including folk dance, experimental skits, and plays rooted in oral traditions, indigenous martial arts, and tribal folklore. The programme featured acclaimed productions such as Japan’s “Shadows of Silence”, India’s “Echoes of the Hills”, and several locally rooted plays that reflected Arunachal Pradesh’s cultural depth.
The festival also hosted workshops on scriptwriting, stagecraft, and indigenous storytelling, offering young and emerging artists the opportunity to learn under national and international mentors.
Performances that Captivated Audiences
Throughout the festival, audiences were captivated by a diverse range of impactful theatrical performances that highlighted the richness and versatility of contemporary theatre. Notable presentations included Jhilmil Hazarika’s powerful performance in “To Kill or Not to Kill”, directed by *Ovlyakuli Khodjakuli, which blended classical narratives with modern interpretations to explore moral conflict, gender sensitivity, and human vulnerability.
The production “Past Gaya Tel Lene” by Roots Itanagar, , received widespread appreciation for its honest and thought-provoking portrayal of artists striving to preserve their creative identity amid social and commercial challenges.
Solo performances added further depth to the festival’s artistic spectrum, with Ms Mita Vasisht’s spiritual interpretation in “Lal Ded”, Danish actress Tilde Knudsen’s engaging rendition of “Alice in Wonderland”, and the acclaimed Irish solo play “King” by Pat Kinevane drawing strong audience response. The festival also featured performances by well-known artistes such as Shekhar Suman and Ill Arun, reinforcing Arunachal Rang Mahotsav’s commitment to artistic diversity, inclusivity, and excellence.
A Memorable Closing Ceremony
The festival concluded on a historic note with the Manipuri production “Song of the Nymphs” by Chorus Repertory Theatre, paying tribute to legendary theatre maestro Ratan Thiyam. Addressing the closing ceremony, Deputy Chief Minister praised the festival’s success and the growing dynamism of Arunachal’s theatre movement.
The closing evening featured energetic performances by Jeli Kayi Tamin, whose dual-voice talent impressed the audience, and Nang Sukanya & The Band, whose soulful music filled the venue. Local artists added colour and rhythm to the celebration, while models from Arunachal Pradesh walked the stage, showcasing the State’s creative vibrancy.
Festival Director expressed gratitude to all artists, partners, and supporters, noting that ARM 2025 marks not a culmination, but the beginning of Arunachal Pradesh’s evolving journey in theatre and cultural expression.
A Cultural Milestone for Arunachal Pradesh
With participation from artists across 10 countries and a strong focus on Arunachal Pradesh’s 26 major tribes, Arunachal Rang Mahotsav 2025 resonated strongly with the spirit of “Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat”. The festival not only celebrated artistic excellence but also reaffirmed the State Government’s commitment to nurturing culture, empowering youth, and positioning Arunachal Pradesh firmly on the global cultural stage.
Arunachal Rang Mahotsav continues to prove that the language of art is universal, connecting people, preserving heritage, and inspiring future generations.
