Donyi-Polo Day, celebrated annually on December 31, is a significant event for the indigenous faith believers of Arunachal Pradesh and parts of Assam. This day honors the Donyi-Polo religion, which reveres the natural forces represented by the sun (Donyi) and the moon (Polo). The celebration involves offering prayers in various Ganggings, which are places of worship for the Tani tribes, including the Adis, Galos, Nyishis, Apatanis, Tagins, and Mishings.
Celebration Activities
The celebration involves various rituals and prayers offered at Ganggings, which are sacred places of worship for Donyi-Polo practitioners. In 2023, ceremonies were held in over 300 Ganggings across Arunachal Pradesh and parts of Assam, with significant gatherings at locations like Central Donyi-Polo Yelam Kebang in Pasighat. Participants engage in traditional prayers to honor the natural deities represented by the sun and moon.
Key Highlights from Recent Celebrations:
Central Celebrations: The main celebrations occur at the Central Donyi-Polo Yelam Kebang in Pasighat, where large gatherings take place. Participants engage in traditional prayers to appease the Sun and Moon, with hundreds of believers attending.
Prayers and Rituals: Hundreds of believers participated in traditional rituals aimed at appeasing the nature gods. The day is marked by a strong sense of community and cultural pride,
Speeches by Leaders: Local leaders emphasized the importance of preserving indigenous culture and faith during these celebrations. For instance, Ajem Tayeng, President of CDPYK, highlighted that Donyi-Poloism is crucial for sustaining natural harmony.
Cultural Significance: The day serves not only as a religious observance but also as a reminder of the need to protect and promote indigenous identities against external influences like Christianity and Hinduism.
Broader Context
Donyi-Poloism has seen a revival since the 1970s as part of a movement to reinforce indigenous identity amidst changing socio-religious landscapes. The religion incorporates animistic beliefs and emphasizes harmony with nature, with its adherents often invoking “Donyi” (Sun) and “Polo” (Moon) in their daily lives.
Donyi-Poloism emerged as a revitalization movement in response to external religious influences, particularly Christianity and Hinduism. Established formally in 1986 with the founding of the Donyi-Polo Yelam Kebang, it has since developed a structured belief system that includes hymns, rituals, and an evolving theology. The name “Donyi-Polo” itself symbolizes a connection to truth and enlightenment within this indigenous context.The observance of Donyi-Polo Day serves not only as a religious event but also as a cultural reaffirmation for the Tani tribes, promoting unity and cultural pride among its followers.
Arunachal Chief Minister Pema Khandu and Home Minister Mama Natung will attend the mega celebration of Donyi Polo Day 2024 on December 31.
