Sunrise Festival

Why in News?

Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister said the Sunrise Festival in Anjaw holds immense potential not only for the border district but for Arunachal Pradesh as a whole.

• It is the first-ever New Year festival in Arunachal Pradesh (2026) built around the unique experience of witnessing India's earliest sunrise.
• Theme – “First to Rise, First to Celebrate” – India’s first sunrise of the year.
• Location – Dong, Anjaw district, near the tri-junction of India, China, and Myanmar.
• Unique Feature of Dong – It is India’s easternmost village and the first place in India to witness the earliest sunrise each year.
• Geographic significance – Dong is nestled near the meeting point of the Lohit River and the Himalayan foothills, known as one of the most offbeat destinations in the country.
• Duration – It is a 5-day festival that begins on December 29, 2025, and concludes on January 2, 2026.
• Signature Event – “Alo Prabhat – Dance of the Dawn”, a performance drawn from the cultural traits of the indigenous Meyor and Mishmi communities.
• Cultural Highlights –
  • Cultural Performances – Meyor and Mishmi tribes showcased traditional dances and songs.
  • Spiritual Emphasis – The festival highlights harmony with nature and reverence for the sun.
  • Community Gathering – It brings together travellers, locals, and artists to celebrate heritage and new beginnings.
  • Experiential Activities – Includes village walks, storytelling, music, art residencies, and cultural interactions with the Meyor tribe.
• Significance – This festival represents a significant initiative to position Arunachal Pradesh as a global destination for nature, culture, adventure, heritage and sun-led New Year celebrations to boost eco-tourism.

References

1. The Hindu | Arunachal celebrates India’s first sunrise of 2026
2. Hindustan Times | Sunrise Festival in Arunachal
3. Sunrise Festival | Sunrise Festival - Dong