tribal fairs and festivals
Dree Festival , arunachal pradesh
Dree Festival is the most famous agricultural festival of the Apatani in Ziro Valley, found in a beautiful area of Arunachal Pradesh. Every year on July 5th, a day is set aside for the beginning of the sowing season. Ritual slaughter and nonblood offerings are also given for the great hope of an abundant harvest. It is a time for traditional dancing, singing, and partying to foster a spirit of communality and celebration.
The Apatanis mainly inhabit the Ziro Valley of Arunachal Pradesh. They have a rich culture with integrated rice-fish farming, and ecological knowledge and natural resource management is an intrinsic part of their culture. The Apatanis speak Tani and are sun (Donyi) and moon (Polo) worshippers. Facial tattoos, nose plugs, and some distinctive practices for which the Apatanis are known are of considerable historical significance.
To help with various matters, Dree has several rituals and ceremonies. During Dree, the first is the slaughter of animals by the village shaman. Traditional dances and songs accompany this slaughtering, while processions are held through the village. Also, the festival offers prayers for a bountiful harvest and blessings of prosperity for the coming year.
Dree Festival is a big part of the Apatanis' culture. It cycles with a change of villages hosting traditional dances, music, and feasts. The festival is a communal occasion where individuals gather to share their traditions and commemorate their community identity.
The Dree Festival is observed with active participation from both old and young members of Apatani community. It is a bringing in of oneness within the community members by making all contribute to its festivities. Along with bringing the people together socially, the event works in preserving the cultural heritage of the tribe as well.