Nyethrii Dow

The Aka people (also known as the Hrusso) reside primarily in the western region of Arunachal Pradesh, particularly in the West Kameng district (including areas like Thrizino, Bhalukpong, Jamiri) and nearby regions. They are celebrated for their colourful customs, rich cultural heritage, and distinctive rituals that reflect their deep connection with nature, spirits and community life.

Nyethrii-Dow is the annual festival celebrated by the Aka people, typically following the harvest season, during which the community renews its bonds, offers thanks, and cleanses their environment and spirits. The term itself speaks volumes: “Nyethrii” means village or inhabited place, while “Dow” means cleansing. Thus, the festival essentially means “cleansing the village”, a ritual of purification and renewal.

According to Aka folklore, the first human pair, Busulu Aao and Nyegrzi Aanyi, were endowed with the power to converse with gods, deities, spirits and all living and non-living beings. They faced many hardships in their hostile surroundings, and through their trials they established the ritual practices that now form part of the Aka festival traditions.

During festival villages are thoroughly cleaned and water sources are purified, symbolising the removal of evil influences. The community gathers to drive out evil spirits, invoke blessings for peace, health, good harvest, prosperity for children, crops, cattle and all members of the society. Traditional dances, music and cultural performances dominate the celebration, strengthening communal identity and passing on cultural memory.

Offerings of the first harvested grains are made to ancestral spirits and deities in a gesture of gratitude and hope for the future.

For visitors to Arunachal Pradesh seeking authentic tribal culture, Nyethrii-Dow offers a rare and enriching experience. The celebration typically occurs in November and is notably observed in the West Kameng district including places like Bhalukpong. The festival is marked by open age-old traditions, warm hospitality, colourful dress and joyous community spirit.