tribal fairs and festivals
Nyokum Festival , arunachal pradesh
Nyokum Festival is indeed a lively celebration among Nyishi to seek blessings from the ancestral spirits and Mother Earth. The word "Nyokum" combines 'Nyo' (land) and 'Kum' (gathering) to mean a holy gathering of people for blessings and prosperity. It is an age-old festival invoked by traditional dances along with prayers and rituals performed to call the Uyus, that is the spirits, for protection and prosperity. A time when they really celebrate their cultural heritage and collectivism as a people.
The Nyishi clan, originally found in Arunachal Pradesh, has a strong affinity towards nature and traditional practices. Being migratory in their past, the Nyishis celebrate Nyokum as an example of paying homage to new lands and ancestral gods. They dress in their traditional wear, like the eri robe in men and par ej for women, to represent their distinct cultures. The Nyishis still maintain their religious and cultural traditions through their festivals and ceremonies.
Nyokum’s rituals include sacrificial offerings to the spirits, with the Mithun sacrifice symbolizing abundance and prosperity. The ceremony involves a community feast called Ashing, where the Mithun meat is shared among villagers. Nyishi elders conduct the sacred rites, invoking the uyus for blessings, while horns of the Mithun are displayed in homes as a symbol of status. These rituals showcase the tribe’s spiritual devotion and social unity.
Nyokum celebrations feature the Rekham Pada dance, a simple yet graceful dance performed by Nyishi women. Both men and women join, singing folk songs to the beat of gunga and talum instruments, which are also played at weddings. The traditional attire includes eri robes and bead jewelry for men, and par ej dresses for women, with bamboo headdresses. This dance reinforces the Nyishi’s cultural identity and their connection to heritage.
Nyokum thrives on community participation, with the entire Nyishi tribe gathering to honor their ancestors and celebrate their culture. The festival promotes togetherness, with shared rituals, dancing, and storytelling of Nyishi origin tales. From the elders to the youth, everyone contributes to preserving traditional customs. This collective involvement ensures that Nyokum and its cultural significance are passed down, fostering a sense of identity and pride within the Nyishi community.