North East India

The culture of Northeast India is a rich tapestry of diverse traditions, languages, festivals, and lifestyles. Comprising eight states—Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim, and Tripura—this region is home to over 200 ethnic groups, each with its own customs and heritage.

Tribal traditions dominate the cultural landscape. Music and dance are central to celebrations, with each tribe having unique forms like the Bihu dance of Assam, the Cheraw (bamboo dance) of Mizoram, and the War dance of Nagaland. Handicrafts, especially weaving and bamboo work, are integral to daily life and are passed down through generations.

Festivals are vibrant and reflect agricultural cycles and spiritual beliefs. Celebrations like Hornbill (Nagaland), Losar (Sikkim), and Sangai (Manipur) showcase local art, cuisine, and folklore. The cuisine is distinct, relying heavily on fermentation, herbs, and indigenous produce, with dishes like smoked meats, bamboo shoot curry, and momos being popular.

Despite modern influences, traditional attire, languages, and practices are preserved with pride. Christianity, Hinduism, Buddhism, and animism coexist peacefully, further enriching the region's diversity. Northeast India's culture is a blend of age-old tribal traditions and evolving modern identity, making it a unique and vibrant part of the Indian cultural mosaic.