Roing The Research Institute of World’s Ancient Traditions Cultures and Heritage (RIWATCH) celebrated the inauguration of its Northeast and International museum wings in a grand ceremony at Khinjili near here on Thursday.
The museum wings are dedicated to preserving the rich history, legacies, textiles, and handlooms of the world, with a special focus on North East India.
Chief Minister Pema Khandu unveiled the two wings in the presence of Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein and distinguished delegates from the 8th International Conference of World Elders held at Dibrugarh.
During his inaugural address, Khandu expressed appreciation for Vijay Swami, the executive director of RIWATCH, commending his dedicated efforts to bring global ancient traditions to a common platform through RIWATCH in Roing.
The chief minister highlighted the invaluable role of the institute as a repository of ancient traditions, cultures, and heritage, pledging ongoing support for its mission to promote and preserve the cultural identity of Arunachal Pradesh.
He urged the revival of lost traditions supported by scientific research.
“RIWATCH is nothing less than a treasure trove of our ancient traditions, cultures, and heritage,” Khandu later wrote on X.
Swami, sharing his extensive experience in documenting cultures across Arunachal Pradesh, underscored the importance of RIWATCH as a museum, showcasing a captivating collection of artifacts, traditional crafts, and historical documents that narrate not only the vibrant cultural heritage of Arunachal but also that of the world.
Swami urged foreign delegates to establish RIWATCH counterparts in their respective countries, envisioning the creation of the University of World’s Ancient Traditions Cultures and Heritage (UWATCH).
The inauguration, attended by esteemed delegates from the 8th International Conference of World Elders, gained a global perspective.
Foreign delegates donated traditional artifacts representing their countries to the Museum’s International wing, fostering discussions on cross-cultural collaborations and the exchange of traditional knowledge.
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Adding literary contributions to the event, two books – “Divine Plants” by Nandini Dholepat and “In the Fabric of Culture” by Karabi Baruah – were also released on the occasion.
Among others, former Chief Minister Mukut Mithi, MLAs Ninong Ering, Mutchu Mithi, and Phurpa Tsering, RIWATCH chairman Joram Begi, and members from various apex bodies and institutions of Arunachal Pradesh were present on the occasion.
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