In the heart of Arunachal Pradesh, amidst the landscapes of the West Siang District, lies Aalo, the cultural center of the Galo tribe. Here, the Donyi-Polo Kargu Gamgi stands not as temple in the traditional sense, but as a guiding light for a unique indigenous faith known as Donyi-Poloism. This religion is deeply connected with the lives of the Galo and other tribes, who have for generations revered the celestial bodies of the Sun (Donyi) and the Moon (Polo). These deities are seen not merely as symbols, but as the fundamental essence of a belief system that existed long before the arrival of other religions. For the followers of Donyi-Poloism, their faith is a testament to an ancient, uninterrupted connection with nature itself.
The Donyi-Poloism religion is founded on an animistic worldview, where every element of nature-from rivers and forests to animals and crops-possesses a spiritual significance. This close relationship with the natural world is not just a spiritual one; it is the very basis of their survival. The tribes are agrarian and have traditionally relied on the land of their sustenance, engaging in activities such as fishing, hunting and the cultivation of staples food like rice, maize, etc. Their festivals and rituals are often timed with the agricultural cycle, celebrating successful harvests and seeking blessings from the natural world. This deep connection is also reflected in their dietary habits, which unlike the tenets of some other religions, are inclusive of a wide variety of animals and birds found in the region. The sacrifice of animals is a vital part of many ceremonies, a practice that highlights the distinctiveness of their cultural and religious identity.
Despite its deep roots and unique character, Donyi-Poloism has frequently been misunderstood and misclassified by outsiders. Some historians, researchers and even public figures have mistakenly linked the faith to other religion, often presenting these connections as established fact. This is a source of great concern and frustration for the indigenous people. They argue that such claims are not only inaccurate but also represent a form of cultural supression, as they weaken a history and identity that has no documented ties to these external religions. Donyi Poloism's followers maintain that their people have no history of migrating from or following these faiths. The constant pressure to align their beliefs with those of the dominant cultures creates a crisis of identity, leading to the erosion of their ancestral traditions and customs.
For the Indigenous people of Arunachal Pradesh, safeguarding Donyi-Poloism is not just about preserving a religion, it is about protecting their very essence and ensuring their ancient heritage survives for future generations. Arunachal Pradesh is fundamentally a land of diverse indigenous tribes, with a significant majority following Donyi-Poloism. It is a state defined by a unique blend of cultures and traditions. Therfore, any attempt to unify the state under a singular religious propaganda is an absurd endeavor that ignores the rich, pluralistic reality of the region and often uses tactics of conversion to diminish this diversity.
