The historical significance of the Ache lhamo performance of the Monpa tribe of Arunachal Pradesh

Abstract

This paper is a historical examination of the Ache lhamo performance, a vibrant tradition of the Monpa tribe of Arunachal Pradesh, India. Ache lhamo performance is enacted through the medium of dance. The performers are royal, celestial and symbolic figures, representing the human and divine.The Monpas have successfully preserved this performance, which continues to resonate with the Tibetan performing arts today. The performance becomes is an integral part of the Monpa culture of the state. However, the Ache lhamo faces numerous challenges that threaten its preservation are influence of modernization and urbanization that has led to a decline in the number of skilled performers. Despite the challenges, Monpas have contributed in preserving Ache lhamo till to this date. This study sheds new light on the historical connection between the Ache lhamo of Arunachal Pradesh and ancient Tibet, contributing to our understanding of cultural exchange and heritage preservation in the region. Ethnographic method was employed to understand the social aspects of Ache lhamo in this paper.This study was conducted mainly in the West Kameng district of Arunachal Pradesh, and utilised participatory observation to explore the Ache lhamo tradition.