TRIBAL TASTES

The remotest parts of the Northeast are home to several tribal festivals, many of them revolving around nature and agriculture, particularly the harvest season. The Moatsü Festival of Nagaland celebrates the sowing season. The Naga tribe, Ao, gathers around a big fire, drinking local brews and feasting on meat dishes. These celebrations are usually closed to outsiders. However, if you visit Arunachal Pradesh during the Mopin Festival, celebrated around the time of harvest, the friendly Galo tribe will invite you to share some rounds of apong, the local rice wine. Assam’s main festivals are the three kinds of Bihu—Rangali, Kangali, and Bhogali, celebrated in April, October, and January, respectively.

Pithas are a must-have sweet during these festivals. Made from rice, coconut, jaggery, and sesame, they come in many forms and require special skills to prepare.