Arunachal Pradesh Governor BD Mishra and Chief Minister Pema Khandu have in separate messages extended greetings to the people of the state on the occasion of Dree festival of the Apatani community, and expressed hope that the festivity would usher in good harvest, peace, prosperity and happiness for all.

The governor appealed to the informed elders and knowledgeable men and women of the community to “promote self-esteem in their ethnicity and customs and preserve it for posterity.”

“On this joyous event, I offer my prayers to Danyi Piillo to invoke the Dree spirit amongst the people for the wellbeing of humankind,” the governor said in a message.

Khandu in his message conveyed appreciation for the Apatani community “for safeguarding and preserving their rich culture and tradition.” He expressed happiness that “the elders of the community have been playing a pivotal role in successfully passing it to the younger generation.”

He offered prayers to almighty Tamu, Harniang, Metii and Danyi to bless humankind with happiness, prosperity and good health. 

Dree festival is a popular festivalin Arunachal Pradesh and it is an important agricultural festival of Apatani tribe. It is the biggest festival celebrated by Apatani and it is marked by sacrificial offerings and prayers.

This festival is celebrated on 5th of July and you can witness this auspicious festival in Ziro district of Arunachal Pradesh.

Dree is celebrated in order to bring a bountiful harvest season, hence, Apatani offers prayers to four Gods they follow – Tamu, Harniang, Metii, and Danyi. The three day long agricultural festival is joyously celebrated with traditional cloths worn by women and children.

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