What measures can we take to preserve our cultural roots better?

It is an indisputable fact that our culture narrates our story, and our heritage sites chronicle our history. Although the history of our indigenous culture is often scarce in written records, it has been lovingly passed down through generations via oral traditions, including folklore and poetry. Additionally, we can draw insights from the histories of more developed civilizations in the past.

In the present day, our responsibility lies in the preservation and safeguarding of the knowledge and treasures we have already unearthed and what we currently understand. Our ancestors exemplified self-reliance, leading simple yet healthy lives while cherishing and respecting the natural world.

Some of the ways to hold on to our cultural roots, are through the simple process of reviving age-old customs, including our traditional culinary practices, native dialects, art & craft, sustainable agriculture and so on. We must also embrace rituals that pay homage to nature and the spirits, including the roles of our local priests and their divine connections.

In our modernised and busy lives, it is crucial that we reconnect with our roots by visiting our villages and learning from the wisdom of our parents and elders. They represent the last generation to experience life before modernization and may be the last witnesses of a bygone era. Engaging in dialogue with our parents and elders allows us to uncover the authentic life stories of village existence, the wisdom of our grandparents, and the customs that define us, ensuring this knowledge isn't lost as they hold the last threads of our past.

Similarly, maintaining and preserving our historical sites is of utmost importance. By doing so, we can confidently narrate our cultural story to those beyond the borders of Arunachal Pradesh.

State treasures like Ita Fort, Malinithan, Parshuram Kund, etc. possess both historical and mythological significance. These sites hold the secrets of centuries past and are an integral part of our heritage, and it's our duty to protect this legacy with pride.

It would be deeply regrettable if we were unable to converse in our native dialect or lacked basic knowledge of our state and its cultural heritage when questioned. In the face of such an inquiry, our silence would be a poignant testament to our neglect. To avoid such embarrassment, we must commit to learning, preserving, protecting, and sharing the invaluable legacy of our history, culture, and traditions. It is our duty and privilege to do so with pride and dedication.

Inviting citizens of Arunachal Pradesh to share their views on how we can preserve our cultural identity better while going hand in hand with changing times.