by Ojing Tayeng and HK Roy
ITANAGAR, Aug 30: The Solung priest (Rhapsodist) along with Ponung delegates from Mikong Village of East Siang District arrived Itanagar today to performed rituals during Solung festival here at Solung Mopin ground, Itanagar.
The beginning day of the celebration is on august 31 evening called Dogin yume (preparations / arrangement evening), 2nd day is Dorep or Ardo-Bado longe’ (starting or sacrifice day), 3rd day is observed as Binnyat, where rituals relating to Goddess of crops and prosperity Kine-Nane is performed, 4th day is known as Taktor / Ekoph (preparation of bows, arrows and war weapons) where arrows and bows were also fastened above the door of every houses and the last day is called Miri yamlik (‘send-off’ ceremonial to Miri Abu)
In this festival Goddess of crops and food grains Kine-Nane, God of wisdom and knowledge Doying Bote and the god of domestic animals Dadi Bote Gumte-Gamro are worshipped and offered offering in every house and field respectively by one of the family members of the household.
During the festival indoor offering is performed in Agam Pebong (altar) of every house, and outdoor offering are performed in Sopiid, a place or wooden post where domesticated animals especially Mithun were fastened, besides these the ritual offering is also done in agricultural field.
In the evening till morning from Dorep Longe, Ponung is performed where the Rhapsodist recites about origin of human being, creation of universe and other activities of human civilization. Even some of the Rhapsodist foretells future incident and happening during Ponung.
During Gidi Adeng-Ape (festival eve) various sports, entertainment activities and social taboos were also performed and observed.
Meanwhile, Preparation of Pobor, Variety show and Ponung will be held on August 31 at Solung Ground, Itanagar.