The US Consulate General Kolkata, in association with non-profit Contact Base and the Department of Tourism, Government of Arunachal Pradesh on Friday released a book titled ‘The Arunachalis - Living with Nature’ at the State Guest House Itanagar.
The book documenting the cultural heritage of 17 indigenous communities of Arunachal Pradesh was released jointly by advisor to Minister of Tourism Arunachal Pradesh Laisam Simai and US Consul General in Kolkata Melinda Pavek.
According to a statement issued by the US Consulate General Kolkata, the release of the book is part of a larger project titled, “Safeguarding of Traditional Culture and Lifestyle of Indigenous People in Arunachal Pradesh for Sustainable Development'' which documented the living traditions of 17 indigenous communities of Arunachal Pradesh through 18 films, a website: www.arunachallivingheritage.com, and the Coffee Table Book.
The field research for the book was facilitated by the Department of Tourism, Government of Arunachal Pradesh. The project engaged more than 450 community representatives in mapping and actively participating in the documentation and conservation process through workshops across 39 locations.
The book has 11 chapters depicting the cultural landscapes, cuisines, architecture, dress and ornaments, weaving, tools and technology, faith and festivals, and heritage safeguarding of the 17 communities.
Addressing the event as the guest of honour, US Consul General Melinda Pavek said, “As a part of the United States-India Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership, it’s important also to highlight the wealth of stories and experiences that come together to make our societies what they are today. The United States is proud to support Arunachal Pradesh’s indigenous cultures, ensuring preservation of its heritage through our US Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservations (AFCP).”
The US government is celebrating 22 years of AFCP and of American leadership, cooperation, and support for the preservation of cultural heritage around the world. Through more than 1,000 projects thus far, the Ambassadors Fund continues to incorporate cultural preservation and protection into American diplomacy.
