A Sacred Beginning: Traditional Galo Invocation Marks Budget Day in Arunachal Pradesh

Itanagar: The day the Government of Arunachal Pradesh presented its Budget for 2026–27 in the State Assembly began on a spiritually uplifting and culturally rich note, reflecting the deep-rooted traditions of the indigenous communities of the state.
On the day the Government of Arunachal Pradesh lays the Budget for 2026–27 in the Assembly, it was a beautiful beginning under the blessings of Ane Mopin as the sisters and brothers of the Mega Mopin Committee, Namsai offered the traditional Ponu Nyibo invocation, calling upon… pic.twitter.com/w4vGRC1eHK
— Pema Khandu པདྨ་མཁའ་འགྲོ་། (@PemaKhanduBJP) March 10, 2026
Under the blessings of Mopin Festival and the revered mother goddess Ane Mopin, members of the Mega Mopin Committee gathered to offer the sacred Ponu Nyibo invocation, a traditional ritual performed according to the customs of the Galo community. The invocation called upon divine blessings for peace, prosperity and harmony, symbolizing the strong bond between governance, culture and faith in the state.
The ceremony was conducted by sisters and brothers of the Mega Mopin Committee from Namsai, who performed the ritual with deep reverence, reflecting the cultural heritage and spiritual values that continue to guide the people of Arunachal Pradesh.
Adding to the warmth of the occasion, the traditional hospitality of the Galo community was extended through the offering of Dopak, a traditional chutney, and Poka, a locally brewed rice wine. These symbolic gestures represent friendship, respect and the spirit of community that define the celebrations surrounding Mopin.
During the interaction, the representatives of the Mega Mopin Committee also extended a formal invitation to attend the Mega Mopin celebration scheduled to be held in Namsai on April 5. The invitation was presented in the traditional Galo style, reflecting the community’s graceful customs and vibrant cultural identity.
Expressing gratitude for the warm gesture, the invitee acknowledged the hospitality of the committee members and appreciated the cultural significance of the invitation. The moment highlighted how traditional values continue to play an important role in public life and social interactions in Arunachal Pradesh.
Celebrated with great enthusiasm by the Galo community, the Mopin festival is a symbol of prosperity, unity and the hope for a bountiful harvest. Events such as these not only preserve the region’s rich cultural traditions but also strengthen the sense of collective identity among the people.
As the state moved forward with its legislative proceedings and budget presentation, the spiritual invocation and traditional welcome served as a reminder that in Arunachal Pradesh, governance and culture often walk hand in hand, guided by ancestral traditions and community spirit.
