Governor B.D. Mishra, CM Pema Khandu extend Dree greetings to people

OUR CORRESPONDENT

ITANAGAR: Arunachal Pradesh Governor Brig (Retd) Dr B.D. Mishra and Chief Minister Pema Khandu have extended their wishes and festival greetings to the people of the State on the occasion of Dree festival of the Apatani community.

The Governor wished that the warmth and splendor, which are part of the auspicious occasion, usher in happiness and prosperity in the coming year.

In his message, B.D. Mishra said that the Dree festival is the cultural identity of the Apatani tribe, which they have proudly preserved since time immemorial. Celebration of this festival, like all other indigenous celebrations, has helped in the preservation, development and bestowing of the age-old values and ethnic identity to future generations.

He said that the continued promotion and practice of the festivals have positively helped the promotion of identity, belief, cultural distinction, social bonding and dispute resolution of the tribes. The Governor appealed to the people of the State to stay informed and remain integrated in protecting their cultural heritage.

"On this auspicious occasion, I offer my prayers to Donyi-Polo to invoke the Dree spirit among the people for the well being of all mankind," said the Governor in his message.

He appealed to the people to remain safe from the COVID-19 pandemic by observing COVID-appropriate behaviour and follow the protocols of using face masks, social distancing, washing hands frequently and getting vaccinated in one's turn.

"Happy Dree to all!" said Pema Khandu in a festival message. Extending best wishes, especially to members of the Apatani community, Khandu expressed hope that the festival will bless the people with happiness, good health and prosperity.

"Unlike earlier years, celebration of the grandest festival of my Apatani brothers and sisters this year will be subdued due to the ongoing pandemic. However, I believe that no pandemic of whatsoever magnitude can dampen the spirit and joy of Dree festival. Let's all join our Apatani brothers and sisters in celebrating the festival with wishes and prayers," he said. While appealing all not to let their guards down against Covid-19 and continue to follow covid appropriate behaviours, Khandu prayed the Almighty to grant respite from the pandemic to the people.

"This Dree, even as we enjoy and celebrate in the confines of our homes, let's pray that these hard times end soon and that we may celebrate with grandeur associated with all our indigenous festivals," added Khandu.

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