Context
The proposed 11,200 MW Siang Upper Multipurpose Project has raised concerns among the Adi community as it may affect their homes, agricultural land and the river-based cultural landscape that is closely connected with their traditional way of life. The concerns go beyond displacement, as the project could also threaten the cultural heritage and historical roots of the Adi civilization.
About the Adi Tribe
| Aspect | Key Features |
| Identity | One of the major indigenous tribal communities of Arunachal Pradesh. The word Adi means ‘hill man’. Belong to the Mongoloid stock with well-built features |
| Distribution | Lower Dibang Valley region, around Roing and Dambuk. |
| Origin | Believed to have migrated from southern China during the 16th century. |
| Sub-groups | 2 major divisions – Bogums and Bomis (have several sub-tribes) |
| Language | Adi language, which is distantly related to Chinese and Tibetan languages. |
| Religion | Most Adis followed Donyi–Polo, an animist faith centred on the worship of the Sun (Donyi), the Moon (Polo) and ancestral deities. Religious practices also involve a shaman known as Miri, who may be a woman. In recent times, Christianity has gained followers within the community, particularly among younger Adis. |
| Housing | Built mainly using wood & bamboo. Houses have raised floors known as Chang, made of split bamboo placed over beams & supported by wooden or bamboo stilts. |
| Major festivals | Solung, Etor and Aaran |
| Traditional dances | Ponung, Delong, Yakjong and Tapu – a traditional war dance. These dances are generally performed in groups and are led by a principal singer (Miri). |
| Society & Social Organisation | Family structure: Father – Head. Generally nuclear families.
Village council: A well-organised & democratic village council known as the Kebang. Clans: Society is divided into several clans, which play an important role in determining kinship and social relationships. Marriage: Monogamy is common, while polygamy is socially restricted. |
| Occupation and Livelihood | Farming – main source (wet-rice cultivation and shifting cultivation). Fishing and hunting supplement their food requirements.
Handicrafts: Cane and bamboo are used to make baskets, trays, mats, haversacks, hats and headgear with decorative designs. Weaving: Adi women are particularly skilled in traditional weaving. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Who are the Adi tribes, and where are they mainly found?
The Adi are one of the major indigenous tribal communities of Arunachal Pradesh. They are mainly found in the Lower Dibang Valley region, around Roing and Dambuk.
Q2. What are the major sub-groups and religious beliefs of the Adi tribe?
The Adi community has two major divisions: Bogums and Bomis. Traditionally, most Adis followed Donyi-Polo, an animist faith centred on the Sun, Moon and ancestral deities. Christianity has also gained followers.
Q3. What are the major festivals and traditional dances of the Adi community?
Major festivals include Solung, Etor and Aaran. Traditional dances include Ponung, Delong, Yakjong and Tapu, a war dance.
Q4. What are the key features of Adi society and traditional housing?
Adi society generally has nuclear families and a democratic village council called Kebang. Traditional houses are built using wood and bamboo, with raised floors known as Chang, supported by stilts.
