Skip to main content

Jawaharlal Nehru State Museum, Itanagar : My Arunachal Pradesh Diary

Introduction: Nestled in the heart of Itanagar, the Jawaharlal Nehru State Museum stands as a testament to the cultural diversity and historical heritage of Arunachal Pradesh. This repository of knowledge and artifacts offers a captivating journey through the tapestry of the state's diverse tribes, encapsulating their traditions, artistry, and history. In this blog post, we will explore the mesmerizing displays of different tribes, the North Eastern States Gallery, and the invaluable historical archaeological findings that grace the halls of this remarkable museum.

 The Diverse Tribes of Arunachal Pradesh:



Arunachal Pradesh is a treasure trove of indigenous cultures, with over 26 major tribes and numerous sub-tribes calling this state home. As you wander through the halls of the museum, you'll encounter meticulously curated displays showcasing the distinct cultural heritage of these tribes. From the vibrant fabrics of the Apatani to the intricate jewellery of the Adi, each exhibit offers a window into the rich traditions and customs that have shaped these communities for generations.

The North Eastern States Gallery:



The museum doesn't limit its focus to Arunachal Pradesh alone. The North Eastern States Gallery is a mesmerizing section dedicated to highlighting the diverse cultures of the entire North Eastern region of India. Here, you'll find artifacts, art, and exhibits from Assam, Manipur, Mizoram, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Sikkim, and Tripura, providing a comprehensive glimpse into the mosaic of cultures that make up this enchanting corner of India.

 Historical Archaeological Findings: One of the most intriguing aspects of the Jawaharlal Nehru State Museum is its collection of historical archaeological findings. These invaluable artifacts offer a unique insight into the ancient civilizations that once thrived in Arunachal Pradesh. From ancient pottery fragments to intricately carved stone tools, each piece speaks volumes about the sophisticated societies that once called this region home. Visitors can marvel at the craftsmanship and ingenuity of these early inhabitants, connecting with a history that predates recorded memory.

Special MentionsAmong the exceptional archaeological findings, a few notable pieces deserve special mention. The meticulously preserved megaliths and petroglyphs from various parts of Arunachal Pradesh stand as silent witnesses to the ingenuity of ancient civilizations. The intricately designed ornaments and tools crafted from metals, bone, and wood showcase the remarkable skills of artisans from centuries past.

Conclusion:A visit to the Jawaharlal Nehru State Museum in Itanagar is an enriching experience that immerses visitors in the cultural tapestry of Arunachal Pradesh and the broader North Eastern region of India. From the fascinating displays of different tribes to the awe-inspiring archaeological artifacts, every corner of this museum offers a glimpse into the vibrant history and traditions that have shaped this enchanting state. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a cultural explorer, or simply someone eager to delve into the rich heritage of India's North East, this museum is a must-visit destination. So, step into the past and let the stories of Arunachal Pradesh come to life at the Jawaharlal Nehru State Museum.

Comments

Popular posts from this blog

JANHA BAGCHA TEESTA RANGIT

This was a national song of Sikkim sung in the Nepali language during the monarchy system. During the merger with India, the song got banned and later re-released. Two words on the 8th para, which earlier said 'Rajah rah Rani,' were replaced with "Janmah bhumi."     This song was dedicated to the King and Queen of Sikkim. The song lyrics were penned by Sanu Lama, and the music was composed by Dushyant Lama.  The song was first sung on the birth anniversary of Chogyal Palden Thondup Namgyal on April 4, 1970, at Gangtok by Aruna Lama, Dawa Lama, and Manikamal Chettri.    JANHA BAGCHA TEESTA RANGIT,  JAHAN KANCHENDZONGA SEER   YEHI HO HAMRO DHANA KO DESH,  TAPAWAN HO PYARO SIKKIM     INTERLUDE     PHULCHAN YEHA AANGANAI MAA,  CHAAP , GURAS, SUNAKHARI   SWARGASARI SUNDAR DESH KO  HAMRO PYARO PYARO JANMAHBHUMI     JANHA BAGCHA……     BATASHLE BOKCHAA YAHA,  TATHAGAT KO AAMAR WAANI ...

Royal flags of Kingdom of Sikkim (1877-1975)

Sikkim (India)   Image by Mario Fabretto Description of the flag Historical flags 1877 - c. 1914 c. 1914 - 1962 1962 - 1967 Description of the flag From Barraclough (1971):  "Sikkim, formerly a protectorate of India, was incorporated as the twenty-second state of the union in May 1975, and the office of the hereditary ruler, the Chogyal , was abolished. Sikkim has, or had, a flag of white with a red border all round, and a yellow Chakra (fimbriated in red) in the centre."  "...the Chakra [is] a Buddhist symbol representing the Law of Dharma , or eternal change." The Chakra on the flag of Sikkim is different then the one on India's flag. It has eight spokes rather than the many spokes on India's, and has an ornate "nub" on the wheel at the head of each spoke. Don Hagemann, 28 November 1995 [editor's note: The source of this quote is not Barraclough (1971), but probably a later edition of the ...

Have you eaten Sikkim Cucumber ?

Ever heard of " Sikkim Cucumber "? To my little knowledge, I have very little heard about it. Well to my surprise, there seems to be a cucumber species in our locality that is known to the other parts of the world as "Sikkim Cucumber" or more efficiently " Concombre Apple Sikkim ". It is said to have an orange-red skin colour. It is said that "Sikkim Cucumber is not a hybrid, but an ancient variety which grows in Sikkim State in India . Protected by hard skin, it can easily be stored safely for months! It is comparatively small, never reaching more than 10 cm/4 inches. Its skin makes for a beautiful design and is a popular ornamental plant in Europe. But it is edible. Its taste is soft and void of acidity. It can be eaten raw or cooked. It certainly seems very popular in the Indian Himalayas . It can actually be prepared in as many dishes as usual green cucumbers." Never knew that one of my favourite Karkra had its ancient connection with S...