Uniting Cultures Through Folk Music at Bharat Lok Sangeet Mahotsav 2025 in Arunachal Pradesh
The second edition of the Bharat Lok Sangeet Mahotsav, held from February 9th to 11th, 2025, in Namsai, was a grand and unforgettable celebration of India’s rich folk traditions and the cultural diversity of the region. Set against the picturesque backdrop of Namsai, the festival showcased the vibrancy of Arunachal Pradesh’s indigenous heritage while embracing the essence of “Unity in Diversity.”
Building upon the resounding success of its debut in 2024, this year’s festival was an even more significant affair. The three-day event brought together cultural performances from across India, along with select international artists, creating a dynamic platform for artistic exchange and collaboration.
A Celebration of Unity in Diversity
The Bharat Lok Sangeet Mahotsav 2025 was a confluence of artistic brilliance, heritage, and cultural exchange. Fifteen cultural troupes from Arunachal Pradesh took center stage, representing diverse indigenous communities such as Adi, Aka Hrusso, Apatani, Idu Mishmi, Memba, Monpa, Nyishi, Tai Khamti, and Ollo. Their performances not only highlighted the richness of Arunachal Pradesh’s folk traditions but also reflected the deep connection between culture, geography, and history.
The festival also welcomed artists from various Indian states, including Himachal Pradesh, Karnataka, and Manipur, alongside international performers from Bhutan and Thailand. This fusion of traditions fostered an atmosphere of mutual respect and understanding, reinforcing the universal appeal of folk music. The inclusion of international artists added a global dimension to the festival, showcasing how folk traditions transcend borders, generations, and languages. The Mahotsav thus emerged as a testament to the power of music in promoting cross-cultural harmony and global unity.
Day 1: An Enthralling Introduction to Folk Traditions
The festival commenced with a vibrant showcase of folk music and cultural traditions, offering audiences an immersive experience of India’s artistic richness. Indigenous performers from Arunachal Pradesh set the stage ablaze with lively dances and traditional songs that celebrated their deep-rooted heritage.
A standout moment of the day was the spellbinding performance by Dobom Doji, whose soul-stirring melodies beautifully encapsulated the essence of Arunachal Pradesh’s indigenous culture. The day’s performances wove together stories passed down through generations, setting the tone for a mesmerizing celebration of folk traditions.
Day 2: A Fusion of Regional and International Cultures
Day 2 of the festival elevated the excitement with an eclectic blend of regional and international performances. Bhutanese artists captivated the audience with their energetic dances and soulful music, offering a glimpse into Bhutan’s rich cultural heritage.
A major highlight was the electrifying performance by Guru Rewben Mashangva, the legendary Naga folk artist, whose unique fusion of folk music and storytelling deeply resonated with Northeast India’s cultural identity. The evening concluded with an enchanting Sufi performance by Nizami Bandhu, whose soul-soothing melodies transcended linguistic and cultural barriers, leaving the audience mesmerized.
Day 3: A Grand Finale of Cultural Splendor
The final day of the Bharat Lok Sangeet Mahotsav 2025 was a spectacular culmination of cultural diversity. The Manipuri dance performance enthralled the audience with its grace and profound storytelling elements, offering a captivating glimpse into Manipur’s cultural heritage. The Snow Lion Dance from the hills of Tawang added a mystical aura to the festivities with its vibrant costumes and dynamic movements, reviving ancient Himalayan traditions.
The evening reached its crescendo with an electrifying performance by Mame Khan, the renowned Rajasthani folk singer. His powerful voice and seamless fusion of traditional Rajasthani folk with contemporary rhythms captivated the audience, making it one of the festival’s most unforgettable moments.
Cultural Diplomacy Through Music
More than just a celebration of music, the Bharat Lok Sangeet Mahotsav underscored Arunachal Pradesh’s role in fostering global cultural diplomacy. Organized by the Government of Arunachal Pradesh under the Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat initiative, the festival provided a vibrant platform to promote the state’s indigenous heritage while strengthening international cultural relations.
Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein, in his address, expressed immense pride in Arunachal Pradesh’s rich traditions and emphasized the significance of folk music and dance as living legacies that bridge generations. He lauded the festival’s role in celebrating India’s diverse cultural heritage and its contribution to strengthening the bonds between different communities.
A Legacy of Cultural Unity
The Bharat Lok Sangeet Mahotsav 2025 was a resounding success, reaffirming the power of folk traditions in uniting people and fostering cross-cultural understanding. The festival not only showcased the artistic brilliance of Arunachal Pradesh but also highlighted the interconnectedness of cultures across India and beyond.
As the festival concluded, it left audiences eagerly anticipating the next edition, where the voices, rhythms, and traditions of folk music will once again unite people from all walks of life. This iconic celebration continues to shine as a beacon of cultural unity, preserving and promoting the world’s rich folk heritage for generations to come.
