Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur And Meghalaya Showcase Cultural Heritage In Dublin Event To Boost Tourism

Published on December 27, 2025

A very important cultural event happened in Dublin, Ireland, on December 19, 2025. The Indian Embassy organized the very first cultural presentation totally dedicated to the North-Eastern states of India, Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur and Meghalaya. This remarkable and one-of-a-kind event was a part of the Embassy’s State Cultural Event Series and a significant initiative that not only presented but also promoted the tourism of the Indian subcontinent. The attendees, composed of the Indian diaspora and Irish citizens, looking for new aspects of Indian culture, were attracted by the focus on the multi-dimensional culture, rich history, and heritage of these states.

Promoting Tourism Through Cultural Diplomacy

The initiative, designed to foster deeper cultural ties between India and Ireland, serves not only as an educational opportunity but also as a strategic effort to enhance tourism. By showcasing the vast cultural heritage of Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, and Meghalaya, the Embassy aims to highlight their untapped tourism potential. In a speech during the event, H.E. Akhilesh Mishra, the Ambassador of India to Ireland, emphasised the Government of India’s concerted efforts to develop the North-Eastern region, which includes improving infrastructure, connectivity, and tourism opportunities.

The tourism sector of these states has witnessed significant growth in recent years, aided by improved air connectivity and the increasing global interest in eco-tourism, wellness, and heritage tourism. The event in Dublin marked a crucial step in promoting these states’ offerings to the Irish market and attracting high-end international tourists to their stunning landscapes, historical landmarks, and vibrant cultural experiences.

A Rich Cultural Showcase

The cultural presentation at the Indian Embassy was a feast for the senses. The event began with a multimedia presentation that highlighted the history, culture, crafts and natural beauty of Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur and Meghalaya. The audience was introduced to the unique aspects of each state, from Arunachal Pradesh’s lush landscapes and tribal traditions to Meghalaya’s awe-inspiring natural beauty and Manipur’s vibrant classical heritage.

One of the event’s highlights was the performance of traditional dance forms. The Nyishi dance from Arunachal Pradesh showcased the cultural vibrancy of the region, while Manipur’s contemporary fusion dance, Nungole Nungole, offered a modern twist on the state’s traditional performances. A classical dance performance, Radha Abhisar, from Manipur, brought the audience into the world of ancient Indian culture. To complement these, the Khasi dance from Meghalaya enchanted visitors with its deep roots in tribal culture. The event also featured Manipuri poem recitations and the display of intricate handicrafts, showcasing the craftsmanship and artistic skills unique to these states.

Government’s Focus on North-Eastern India

In his speech, Ambassador Mishra emphasised the Government of India’s growing focus on the North-East and its strategic initiatives to boost tourism in the region. He pointed out that Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, and Meghalaya are brimming with untapped potential that could attract tourists seeking authentic cultural experiences. This is especially relevant as the region has been undergoing major infrastructural transformations, including improvements in road and air connectivity, which have made it easier for international tourists to visit.

The enhanced air connectivity, in particular, plays a pivotal role in increasing the accessibility of these states to tourists. With major airports like Guwahati in Assam offering international flights and more domestic connections being added to the North-Eastern states, tourism to places like Tawang, Shillong, and Imphal is expected to surge. Additionally, the organic, herbal and medicinal products from these states are gaining recognition in global markets, with the potential to boost exports and support sustainable tourism.

Opportunities for High-End Tourists

Ambassador Mishra also highlighted the region’s appeal to high-end tourists, including wellness and adventure travellers. Arunachal Pradesh, with its pristine landscapes and Buddhist monasteries, presents an ideal destination for spiritual and adventure tourism. Meanwhile, Manipur is renowned for its classical dance forms and sports culture, particularly polo. Meghalaya, with its waterfalls, caves, and the famous Living Root Bridges, offers a unique combination of eco-tourism and cultural exploration. Together, these states are becoming increasingly recognised for their potential to cater to luxury travellers seeking bespoke experiences.

The event was well-received by the Irish public, with many attendees expressing their interest in visiting these regions. By targeting the Irish market, which has shown a growing curiosity for unique cultural experiences, the Embassy hopes to establish long-lasting tourism relationships that will benefit both countries.

Engaging the Irish Diaspora

The event also gained much support from the Indian diaspora in Dublin, who played a key role in making the event a success. Many members of the community, particularly children, made a special effort to learn and perform dances from the North-Eastern states. Their involvement not only highlighted the importance of cultural exchange but also demonstrated the strong bond between India and Ireland, especially within the diaspora. Ambassador Mishra praised the enthusiastic support of the Indian community in Dublin and acknowledged their contributions to the success of the event.

At the event’s conclusion, the Ambassador presented certificates of appreciation to all the artists and performers who had contributed to showcasing the cultural richness of Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, and Meghalaya. Their performances, along with the multimedia presentation, left a lasting impression on the audience, igniting a curiosity about these states and their potential as tourism hotspots.

A Bright Future for Tourism

This event in Dublin marks just the beginning of a broader effort by the Indian Embassy to promote tourism in North-Eastern India. As the region continues to develop and gain international recognition, events like these will play a vital role in attracting tourists from around the world. For Ireland, the event offered a unique opportunity to explore the rich heritage of India’s North-Eastern states, while for India, it signified a step towards building stronger cultural and economic ties with Ireland, and further positioning Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur and Meghalaya as emerging tourism destinations.

The states with an emphasis on infrastructure, sustainable tourism practices, and cultural exchange are likely to see an increase in international visitors in the upcoming years. The increasing interest of the Irish public in North-Eastern India can be termed as a hopeful sign for the continuity of tourism flow from Ireland to India which would, in turn, benefit the latter’s economy and contribute to better international comprehension of India’s varied cultures.