Maksam Tayeng

PASIGHAT :  In a bid to preserve the traditions and cultural identity of Adi women and inspire younger generations, the Adi Baane Ane Kebang (ABAK) on Saturday launched a distinctive bead garland for Adi women named ‘Banné Nog-ying’ at IGJ Government Higher Secondary School (GHSS) conference hall in Pasighat.

The ornament was introduced on the lines of the traditional ‘Dudab’ worn by Adi menfolk and is intended to serve as a unique cultural identifier for Adi women.

Pasighat East MLA Tapi Darang, who attended the programme as chief guest, lauded the initiative and said the launch of ‘Banné Nog-ying’ would strengthen and preserve the distinct identity of Adi women.

Central Donyi-Polo Yelam Kebang president Dr Tajom Tasung described the initiative as a landmark step towards safeguarding the rich traditions and cultural heritage of the Adi community.

East Siang Zilla Parishad Chairperson (ZPC) Ruth Tabing Boko said Adi women have traditionally adorned ornaments such as Nog, Sondorong, Maduli, Tampilang and Sumbi. She noted that ‘Banné Nog-ying’ would particularly be associated with unmarried Adi women, similar to the traditional identity represented by ‘Banbo Reyang’ among unmarried Adi men.

ABAK president Yamek Mize Taggu, general secretary Opung Jamoh Dai and vice-president Oming Jamoh Pertin highlighted the significance of the initiative, which received approval from the Adi Baane Kebang and Opin Buang Council on May 2 this year.

The organisers said ‘Banné Nog-ying’ is a recreation of ‘Nog’, a traditional female ornament of the Adi tribe, redesigned to preserve its cultural significance while making it suitable for contemporary use. The ornament was conceptualised by ABAK general secretary Opung Jamoh Dai and crafted by Yato Jamoh Nobeng, while the name was coined by Dambuk Head Gaon Burah Maktel Pertin of Lower Dibang Valley district.

According to the organisers, the ornament is intended to honour women, friends and distinguished female guests with dignity, respect and cultural pride.

Speaking to media persons after the event, Opung Jamoh Dai, former ABAK president Olen Megu Damin and ABAK patron Osor Moyong Tayeng said the ornament had been specially designed by incorporating elements of traditional Adi women’s attire, particularly ‘Adi Gale Amik’ bead patterns. They also appealed to other tribal communities to respect the traditional identity and cultural heritage of Adi women.

The programme was attended by Pasighat Municipal Council Deputy Chief Councillor Kamin Lego, ABAK members and representatives from several Adi-inhabited districts, including East Siang, Siang, Upper Siang, Lower Dibang Valley, Namsai and Shi-Yomi.

The initiative is being seen as an important effort towards strengthening cultural identity, traditional awareness and community unity among the Adi people.