Myth: Solung Festival Celebrated in New Delhi

 The Myth of Solung

On the night of August 24th, 2013, Arunachalees—both young and old—gathered at Arunachal Bhawan in New Delhi to celebrate the vibrant “Solung” festival. The event was hosted by Mr. Ninong Ering, Member of Parliament (Lok Sabha) from Arunachal Pradesh, who also served as the Union Minister of State for Minority Affairs at the time.

The evening was filled with cultural performances that brought the beauty and richness of the Adi culture to life. The program was skillfully compered by two young Adis: Miss Sunny Tayeng, an MSc Chemistry student at Delhi University, and Mr. Kaling Darung, a PhD candidate at Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU). The night brimmed with cultural pride and joy.

Many prominent politicians and bureaucrats from Arunachal Pradesh attended the festival, including Mr. Chownamein, the Minister of Finance (PWD); Mr. Huzer Lolen IAS, Secretary of the Jal Board in Delhi; Mr. Bolung Siram IAS; Mr. T. Taloh IAS; Mr. Chuku Apa IPS; Mr. Apur Bitin IPS; Dr. Thokchom Meinya, MP from Manipur; Mr. Takam Sanjoy MP (Secretary, North East MP Forum); and Mr. Ninong Ering, the gracious host.

The Myth Behind Solung

Solung is the central festival of the Adi tribe, a manifestation of their deep cultural and spiritual beliefs. According to tradition, the Adis were instructed by Kine Nane, the goddess of wealth and prosperity, to perform the Solung festival.

As per Adi legend, Doying Bote, the god of knowledge and the creator of humans (Tani), became infatuated with Kine Nane. When he was about to consummate his desire, two monstrous beings—Totel Mone and Dubeng Mone—interrupted and castrated him, scattering his divine sperm across the land. From this seed, paddy plants sprouted. Kine Nane, seeing humans suffering from hunger, sent paddy seeds through a dog to provide them with sustenance. Since then, humans have cultivated paddy to meet their needs.

The Adis also believe that Dadi Bote, another deity, is the creator of animals like mithuns and pigs, essential for their livelihood. Offerings called Agam Kepel are made to appease Dadi Bote. During the Solung festival, the Adi people seek to please both Dadi Bote and Kine Nane. If they succeed, it is believed that Doying Bote will manifest as clouds and rain, while Kine Nane will bless the land with fertile soil. Together, their union ensures abundant crops, more livestock, and prosperity for all.

The Festival's Rituals

Solung is celebrated over five days.

• Day 1: Solung Gidi Dogin, the day of preparation.
• Day 2: Doreph Longe, the main day of animal sacrifice.
• Day 3: Binnayat Binam, a day of worship dedicated to the goddess of plenty and prosperity.
• Day 4: Yaktor or Ekoph, when villagers prepare bows, arrows, and weapons.
• Day 5: The Miri, or village priest, is ceremonially sent off with singing and dancing, marking the end of the festival.

Throughout the festival, the Miri sings the Solung Abang, narrating the stories of the origins of humans, animals, and plants. Solung is celebrated not just for a good harvest but also to ensure an abundance of animals and protection from calamities, accidents, and diseases.

Symbolism and Final Ritual

The final part of the celebration, known as Ekop Taktor, involves erecting a symbolic bow and arrow at the entrance of each house to protect against evil spirits. Families offer prayers to Doying Bote, the wise and benevolent god, and Gumin Soyin, the family guardian god.

The Miri's chants, or Ponung, recount Tani's struggle against evil, guided and blessed by Doying Bote and Gumin Soyin. With their help, Tani is said to have established a settled family and social life.

Through centuries, the Adi people have preserved the legacy of Solung, celebrating it as a time of unity, peace, and prosperity. The festival serves as a reminder of their rich cultural heritage, echoing the values of love and togetherness. The 2013 celebration concluded on a high note with a sumptuous feast, marking the end of a truly auspicious night.

~ Bruce K. Thangkhal 

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