The diverse ethnic communities of Arunachal Pradesh have their own distinct traditional attires that reflect their rich cultural heritage. Here are some of the traditional clothing worn by the people of Arunachal Pradesh:
1. Monpas:
- Male Attire: Monpa men wear a long robe-like garment called a "Kho", complemented by a sleeveless jacket known as a "Chubba" in colder climates.
- Female Attire: Monpa women wear a knee-length wrap-around skirt called a "Khema", paired with a blouse and a long-sleeved jacket. They often adorn themselves with intricate silver jewelry.
2. Sherdukpens:
- Male Attire: Sherdukpen men wear a long robe called a "Phagpa", which is often made of wool or yak hair. They complement their attire with a waistband, scarves, and a conical cap.
- Female Attire: Sherdukpen women wear "Nyapchu," a woven woolen tunic with floral patterns. They pair it with a blouse, an apron, colorful scarves, and a woven bag called a "Chumbi."
3. Adis or Minyongs:
- Male Attire: Adi men typically wear a knee-length loincloth called a "Gatchi," paired with a decorative belt and a cotton cloth wrapped around the upper body.
- Female Attire: Adi women wear a blouse known as a "Mimak" and a wrap-around skirt made of hand-woven cotton or silk. They also adorn themselves with elaborate beadwork and intricate silver jewelry.
4. Apatanis:
- Male Attire: Apatani men wear a knee-length robe known as a "Ramo" or "Gale," usually made of cotton. They enhance their attire with a woven cloth called a "Pereng" around their waists.
- Female Attire: Apatani women are renowned for their unique facial tattoos and wear intricately woven clothes, including a wraparound skirt called a "Pangi," a jacket, a blouse, and a waist towel called a "Geyu."
5. Nyishis:
- Male Attire: Nyishi men wear a "Ngoram" or "Gorum, a long loose gown, often made of cotton. They also wear a sleeveless jacket called a "Chhapa," usually embellished with decorative buttons.
- Female Attire: Nyishi women wear a wrap-around skirt known as a "Gachu" and a blouse. They are skilled at weaving shawls and often wear a shawl called a "Nyemla."
6. Mishmis or Idu Mishmis:
- Male Attire: Mishmi men typically wear a "Yobok," a long, wraparound cloth covering the upper body, and a "Lango" or "Langot," a loincloth.
- Female Attire: Mishmi women wear a "Tayu," a wrap-around skirt, and a "Misi," a jacket that covers their upper torso. They are skilled in weaving and intricate embroidery.
These are just a few examples of the diverse traditional clothing worn by the people of Arunachal Pradesh. The state is home to numerous tribes, each with its own unique artistic expression and cultural heritage, reflected in their attire, fabrics, and designs.