Ziro Music Festival

Ziro, Sept 29: The 10th edition of the Ziro Music Festival (ZMF), one of the North East’s most anticipated musical events, commenced in the picturesque town of Ziro, Arunachal Pradesh, on Thursday, overcoming a boycott threat that had cast a shadow over its proceedings.

Ziro, located about 115 km from the state capital Itanagar, serves as the headquarters of the Lower Subansiri district and is predominantly inhabited by the Apatani community, known for their unique culture and traditions.

The controversy leading up to the festival began when the Apatani Students’ Union expressed its intent to boycott the ZMF, alleging that the festival organizers had failed to fulfil a “unanimous decision” to prominently feature the “Zero Drug Ziro” campaign logo on all promotional materials.

In an effort to mediate and resolve the issue, the Tanii Supuñ Dukun (TSD), a community-based organization, stepped in. Given that both the students’ union and the festival organizers were actively involved in anti-drug efforts, the TSD played a crucial role in facilitating a resolution.

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As a result, the students’ union’s planned strike, scheduled for September 29-30, was withdrawn, ensuring the festival could proceed without interruption.

The inaugural function of the Ziro Music Festival witnessed the presence of Chief Minister Pema Khandu, who participated in a plogging and cyclothon event as part of the garbage-free India campaign.

Taking to social media, Chief Minister Pema Khandu expressed his delight at being a part of the Ziro Festival, describing it as an iconic celebration of music, arts, community, sustainability, and cultural diversity. The festival’s unique location amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Ziro adds to its charm.

The ZMF, renowned for its celebration of music, art, and culture, has garnered a dedicated following over the years, primarily due to its strong commitment to sustainability. Festival organizers adhere to the use of locally sourced biodegradable materials, aligning with the core values of the nature-worshipping Apatani community.

The festival, initiated in 2012 by musician Bobby Hano and Menwhopause guitarist Anup Kutty, offers a platform for emerging artists and a space to celebrate the rich cultural heritage of the region. With its unique blend of music, art, and sustainable practices, the Ziro Music Festival continues to captivate audiences and promote harmony with nature.

This year’s ZMF promises to be a memorable event that showcases the vibrancy of the North East, transcending boundaries through the universal language of music and art. The festival will run until October 1, providing attendees with a unique cultural experience amidst the stunning landscapes of Ziro.