Haji Top and The Nyishi Tribes of Sacred Arunachal

Nestled in the serene hills of Arunachal Pradesh, the small yet vibrant village of Borarupak is home to the Nyishi tribe, a community whose life is deeply rooted in the Indian culture and its ancient traditions. Living amongst towering peaks and lush forests, this tribe is a living embodiment of Arunachal Pradesh’s rich cultural heritage, one that has withstood the test of time.

Known for their rich traditions, folklore, and profound respect for nature, their connection to the land and each other is rooted in centuries-old customs that have remained in their pristine form till today. The tribe speaks the Nyishi language, and their social structure relies on close-knit family bonds, with elders highly respected and their wisdom held in reverence.

The tribe celebrate several festivals throughout the year, each marking important points in their agricultural and spiritual calendar. One of the most significant of these is the Solung Festival, which marks the start of the harvest season. During Solung, the Nyishi people come together to celebrate nature’s abundance and pay homage to the spirits of the land. Traditional dances, folk songs, and prayers to the spirits comprise of the celebration of the connection to their ancestors and the earth.

The deep rooted culture of the Nyishi, on display at the Solung Festival!

Traditionally, their primary occupation has been agriculture. They cultivate crops such as rice, millet, and vegetables, which are vital to their survival. The tribe also practices hunting and fishing, relying on the forest and rivers for food. They continue to rely heavily on their traditional knowledge of agriculture, passed down through generations.

The sacred Haji Top also known as Axingela Peak, towering near the Borarupak village, is believed to be the spiritual guardian of the tribe. It is named after mythical figures from folklore, believed to protect the people from harm and ensure their prosperity.

The forests surrounding Haji Top hold deep spiritual significance. These forests are revered as sacred groves, places where the physical and spiritual worlds converge. The Nyishi believe that spirits known as Yuy inhabit these groves and care for them with the utmost respect. Disturbing these areas without proper rituals or offerings is believed to bring misfortune to the community. This reverence for nature runs deep within the Nyishi way of life. Every tree, river and mountain is viewed as a living entity that deserves respect.

Sacred Forests, Nyishi & the Yuy Spirits - Inhabitants of Haji Top (Pt. 1247m) & Borarupak

Haji Top, like many other remote peaks in Arunachal Pradesh, is an invaluable part of India’s rich landscape. The village of Borarupak and its Nyishi tribe, deeply rooted in nature and ancestral wisdom, is an essential part of India’s identity. As we look ahead, it is our responsibility to honour these tribes and their culture, ensuring that the essence of Arunachal Pradesh—and India as a whole—remains vibrant, resilient, and connected to its roots for generations to come.