Day spent witnessing Nyokum

A phone call and I was here in no time. The excitement of seeing a festival that decapitate a mithun (domesticated form of Indian bison) was immense. The thrill was at its heights when i reached the place. The whole ground was in a colorful mood. Everyone male female in their traditional attire waiting for the ceremony to start.

Boys dressed up in their traditional attire for the festival

Girls in their traditional attire waiting eagerly.

The mithun resting unknown what is stored for him.

Nyokum is a festival celebrated by the Nyishi people principaly found in the Indian state of Arunachal Pradesh. It can be described as a festival celebrated to invite all the God and Goddess of the universe to a particular place to provide productivity prosperity happiness to all human beings of the earth.

The main prayer structure is made of bamboo known as "YUGANG" where animals are tethered.

The stage is all set but we are stiil waiting for the guest of honor to arrive to grace the occasion. So i decide to stroll the place and get more flavor out from the place. The stalls mainly consist of different garments and accessories worn by them.

Adding to the chromaticity of nyokum  is the exquisite Ice-cream enjoyed by the kids. There is nothing more soul-stirring surprise than the first adventure with ice-cream. And how can i pass by without clicking them.

Finally it was time for the ceremony to begin. It started with different dances performed by the girls. Though i  was not able to grasp the meaning of the songs the smile on their faces gave the impression that they are enjoying a lot. There was singing and dancing before the head priest or 'Nyubh' comes with his attendents to perform the rituals. And finally at the end rice beer or known as apong are distributed among the guests.