LIKABALI, Feb 26: A workshop on the theme “Preservation of Indigenous Priesthood Culture” was conducted at the Central Kargu Gamgi Hall, Likabali, in Lower Siang District today. The workshop, organized by the Department of Indigenous Affairs, Government of Arunachal Pradesh, in collaboration with the Lower Siang District Administration, was graced by Deputy Commissioner Rujjum Rakshap and District Medical Officer Dr. Nyage Geyi as the Chief Guest and Guest of Honour, respectively.
While appreciating the noble initiatives of the Department of Indigenous Affairs and the overwhelming response from both the indigenous priest community and general indigenous believers of the district, Shri Rakshap emphasized the need for similar workshops and innovative initiatives across the state to protect and promote the indigenous faith and practices. He stressed that the priesthood institution must adapt to the changing dynamics of society to ensure its survival over time. Shri Rakshap also advocated for simplifying certain complexities within the institution while maintaining its core ethos and ideologies to make it more accessible to followers.
“A priest needs to uphold certain ethics and lead a healthy lifestyle, as they are the guardians of the vital institution of indigenous faith and practices. They should reciprocate the government’s efforts to provide them with a better environment to grow and sustain themselves in the dynamic landscape of human civilization,” he added.
“We need to move beyond the stereotypes associated with the priesthood institution of the past and integrate certain practices that align with the evolving needs and demands of the present time,” he further stated.
Dr. Nyage Geyi referred to Nyibus as the most revered members of society. He highlighted that priesthood culture and medical sciences serve different paths, yet both ultimately work for the welfare of society. He also discouraged the exorbitant ritual expenses imposed by some priests and suggested amendments to make them more affordable for all sections of society.
Earlier, Augusti Jamoh, District Art & Culture Officer cum District Nodal Officer (DIA), Lower Siang, delivered a precise keynote address outlining the purpose and importance of the workshop. He presented a brief report on the activities undertaken by the department in the district and the projections for the future.
A large number of enthusiastic indigenous Nyibus from across the district actively participated in the workshop and benefitted from the deliberations of senior resource persons and live demonstrations of ritual practices by Galo priests. Special focus was given to topics such as ‘Erap Gaanam’, ‘Rokbu-Roklap Beenam’, ‘Rogsin Kognam’, and ‘Agam Laayap’—important and essential rituals performed by priests on various occasions to mediate between human affairs and divine domains. These rituals are primarily conducted to ward off malevolent forces and seek blessings from gods and goddesses.
