08/07/2026
Episode 3: Know My Northeast | Tribes of Arunachal Pradesh
Most people know Arunachal Pradesh for its mountains. But very few know it’s one of India’s most culturally diverse states, home to 26 major tribes and over 100 sub-tribes, each with its own language, traditions and way of life.
Somewhere in the north of Arunachal Pradesh, in a valley called Ziro, a tradition has quietly survived for generations. The Apatani people farm their land without ever using animals to plough their fields—no oxen, no cattle—just knowledge passed down through generations. Around them live the Adi, Nyishi, Galo and Tagin tribes, each shaped by the same misty mountains in their own unique way.
As the story moves west, it changes completely. Among the Monpa, Sherdukpen, Aka and Miji tribes, life follows the rhythm of Tibetan Buddhism, and this is where the iconic Tawang Monastery has stood for centuries. Travel east instead, and you’ll meet the Mishmi, Khampti and Singpho tribes, many of whom follow Theravada Buddhism—a tradition more commonly found across Southeast Asia.
Further south, the story takes another turn. The Wancho, Nocte and Tangsa tribes carry their history through age-old tattoo traditions, reflecting cultural ties with Nagaland and Myanmar.
And these are just a few. Arunachal Pradesh is home to 26 major tribes and more than 100 sub-tribes, each with its own language, customs, festivals, attire and beliefs.
Earlier this year, Arunachal Pradesh celebrated its Foundation Day with folk dances and exhibitions honouring its 26 major tribes, and a film based on the Tagin community recently brought their story to a national audience for the first time.
That’s the real story of the Northeast—not one culture, but hundreds of traditions living side by side, still writing new chapters.
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