[ Prafulla Kaman ]
PASIGHAT, 5 Feb: East Siang DC Tayi Taggu released a short film made by renowned artist Delong Padung at a function here on Friday evening.
The film, titled Kiine Gaaling (Divine Power of Women) is based on the spiritual belief and attachment of the Abotani people to their tangible culture. It emphasizes the need to protect ‘indigenous materials’ without making any change or modification.
Padung, who is the producer and director of the film, said: “Indigenous cultures are on the verge of extinction under the influence of foreign cultures, thereby posing a threat to ethnic identity of the tribal groups of the region.”
“Through this film, I am making a sincere effort to sensitize the tribal people on the importance of protecting and promoting their culture,” he said.
Debutant Tojo Riba plays the lead male role in the film, alongside model and Bollywood actress Chum Darang of Pasighat.
Padung had released his first short film in November last year. The film highlighted the morals of an Arunachalee girl, her modesty towards non-Arunachalee guests (sinung) and involvement with natural beauty of the state.
The DC on his part spoke on the efforts being made by the United Nations Organization to protect and preserve indigenous tribal cultures. He suggested to the members of the community to speak in their mother tongue.
“Padung is the only person in the state who has been trying to showcase the ethnic tribal culture of Arunachal before the world community,” the DC opined.
Adi Baane Kebang secretary Tayom Dai appealed to the members of the community to help and offer suggestions to Padung, “so that he can achieve more in the field of culture.”
ADC (HQ) Tatdo Borang and ABK leader Talut Siram also spoke.
