Culture of Lower Subansiri district mainly reflects the indigenous traditions and customs of the local tribal groups residing in this district. In Lower Subansiri district of the state of Arunachal Pradesh, there are three main tribes namely Apatani tribe, Nishing tribe (Nishi tribe) and the Hill Miri tribe. Tribal culture is predominant in this district. The local people belonging to these tribal groups have their own fairs and festivals. Myoko festival, Murung festival and Dree festival are some of the popular festivals of Lower Subansiri district. Further, the culture of Lower Subansiri district gives a proper idea about the lifestyle and local belief of the people.
The Apatani tribe belongs to the Tibeto-Mongoloid stock. All Apatanis trace their descent from the legendary ancestor, Abotani. These people migrated to this region from northern areas, beyond Khru River and Kime rivers. They design beautiful handicrafts, besides, practicing paddy - fish cultivation. The Nishis (people belonging to Nishi tribal group), are also known as Nishangs. Interestingly, there are many similarities between the Apatani tribes and Nishi tribes. Like for instance, they also belong to the Tibeto-Mongoloid block. Like the Apatani tribe, the Nishis also trace their descent from renowned ancestor, Abotani. The Nishis, residents of the western half of the Lower Subansiri district, have migrated from northern area beyond Khru River and Kime River. On the other hand, the main concentration of the Hill Miri tribes is spread over Raga Circle. Further, the Hill Miris are fair in complexion. The main festival of the Hill Miri tribe is Boori boot, which is generally celebrated in the month of February with full enthusiasm and vigour. They weave elegant garments and are particularly fond of dance and music. The socio-economic as well as political life of the Hill Miris is similar to that of the Nishis. However, there are various regional differences.
Some of the main festivals of this district are Myoko festival, Murung festival, Dree festival and more. These festivals add more charm and colour to the culture of the Lower Subansiri district. Every year, the people of different villages of this region celebrate Myoko festival during the month of March on rotational basis with traditional gaiety and festivity. Murung festival is another important festival of the Lower Subansiri district. It is celebrated during the month of January and the main motive behind its celebration is well being of the people and prosperity. In Murung festival, cows are sacrificed and are distributed to the people of Apatani tribal group. Another popular festival that gives a brief idea about the regional culture of Lower Subansiri district is the Dree festival. It is basically agricultural festival and is generally celebrated during the month of July. In this, festival people offer prayers in order to protect the agricultural crops from pests and other diseases. Moreover, traditional songs and dances are also performed in this festival.
The people belonging to different trial groups of this district celebrate all these festivals with huge zeal and fervour. Thus, it becomes quite clear that tribal culture is prominent in the Lower Subansiri district.
