Traditional dances from from western Arunachal Pradesh

14 November 2023

Students from western Arunachal Pradesh perform traditional dances on the last day of the Torgya temple ceremonies at the Upper Gompa of the Gontse Gaden Rabgyel Ling (GRL) Monastery in Bomdila. These dances showcase the state’s rich tribal heritage and cultural diversity. The performances primarily represent the traditions of the Monpa, Tibetans, and the Gorkha people from Nepal. They are both contemporary group dances and the traditional Aji Lhamu dance of the Monpas. After the performance, monks present “khata”, a traditional Tibetan ceremonial scarf symbolising goodwill and respect.

Aji-lhamu, a traditional dance from Moshing village.

Students perform a Tibetan group dance, with “khata” ceremonial shawls.

Students perform a Tibetan group dance, with “khata” ceremonial shawls. The two dancers at left have Monpa dress and headgear.

The student dancers receive a “khata” ceremonial shawls around their neck by a monk, as appreciation, after their performance.

Students from Bomdila perform a group dance.

Young women perform a group dance, joined by a masked “clown”, played by a monk.

The dancers receive a khata” ceremonial shawls around their neck by a monk, as appreciation.

Students perform a Tibetan group dance, depicting agriculture.

Young women perform a Gorkha group dance.

Student dancers posing for a groep photo after their performance at the Upper Gompa of the Gontse Gaden Rabgyel Ling (GRL) Monastery in Bomdila.