Introduction
NYISHI Indigenous Identity SocietyThe term “NYOKUM” is a derivative of 2(Two) words – “NYOK” means entire land or the whole area of earth and “KUM”- means putting things or coming together or in short collectiveness. Therefore NYOKUM is a gathering together of all people from all corners of the earth to a particular place for a celebration. Nyokum is a special celebration for the expression of unity and equality amongst the community members by providing an opportunity to each and everyone to be improved upon themselves to be a good and better nyishi. Nyokum Celebration (Nyokum Soonam in Nyishi) is an Agro-Cultural festival being celebrated annually by the Nyishi Community (an
indigenous tribe) of Arunachal Pradesh centering on agricultural cultivation by showcasing Cultural and traditional characteristics of Nyishi Community irrespective of any caste, creed, religion, etc. Nyishi celebrates Nyokum in the month of February (in Nyishi month called “LIMI POL”) with the advent of the spring season. In fact, this festival is the New Year celebration of the Nyishi community as the preparation for new cultivation begins during this month and all new vegetation begins to germinate. Nyokum is celebrated at the time when fields are prepared for the fresh cultivation of new agricultural crops. Nyishis presumed that Nyokum marked the beginning of a new agricultural calendar year. In the Nyokum celebration, people from every walk of life participated without considering caste, tribe, race or community, creeds, or religion on the 26th day of February every year.