Arunachal woman transforms 200-year-old ancestral house into museum to preserve tribal traditions

Itanagar, Feb 28: In an era where modernization often overshadows tradition, a young woman from Arunachal Pradesh is striving to keep her community’s heritage alive—not just in museums or history books, but within the very walls of her home.

Leike Chomu, a 24-year-old from the Monpa community in western Arunachal Pradesh, has turned her 200-year-old ancestral home into a living museum. Unlike conventional museums that merely display artifacts, Chomu’s initiative preserves an entire way of life, ensuring that Monpa culture remains vibrant and accessible.

The house, built with traditional Monpa techniques using mud and stone, stands as a testament to the community’s architectural heritage. “It’s about keeping our cultural identity alive,” Chomu emphasized.

A Personal Mission to Preserve Heritage​

The idea for the museum was initially encouraged by WWF India as part of efforts to protect Monpa heritage. However, Chomu took on the task personally, spearheading the restoration of the structure, conservation of artifacts, and making the space visitor-friendly.

“For me, this is more than just a project. It is my family’s legacy,” she said, underscoring her deep personal commitment to the initiative.

Understanding that modernization threatens to erode traditional lifestyles, Chomu aimed to preserve Monpa knowledge, customs, and everyday practices before they disappear. By maintaining the house itself as an exhibit, she offers visitors an immersive experience of Monpa architecture, lifestyle, and traditions.

Since its official launch on October 5 last year, the museum has attracted numerous tourists and culture enthusiasts. Visitors have expressed amazement at the authenticity of the experience, often describing it as a journey back in time.

“They are fascinated that the museum isn’t just about objects—it’s about the house itself, the architecture, and the way of life it represents. Many have told me they feel a deep connection to Monpa heritage after visiting,” Chomu shared.

Challenges and Future Aspirations​

Originally from Chug Valley in Dirang, West Kameng district, Chomu holds a BSc in Agriculture with a background in agroecology. Her connection to the land and its traditions has fueled her passion for heritage preservation.

However, restoring and maintaining a 200-year-old structure while keeping it authentic has posed significant challenges. Preserving artifacts, convincing community elders to participate, and securing sustainable funding are among the hurdles she faces.

“So far, there has been no financial support from the state government for this project. I hope that in the future, authorities will recognize its importance and offer assistance for its upkeep and expansion,” she stated.

The initial funding came from WWF India, but beyond that, Chomu has managed the museum through personal efforts. “The museum is still a work in progress. There’s a lot more to be done, and I am constantly looking for ways to improve and sustain it,” she added.

Her vision for the museum extends beyond preservation—she aims to transform it into a cultural hub where visitors can actively engage with Monpa heritage. Plans include:

• Storytelling sessions with community elders to share oral traditions.
• A small library featuring Monpa history and folklore.
• Eco-tourism initiatives, including a rest area where visitors can experience traditional Monpa hospitality.
• Collaboration with artisans and researchers to document and promote indigenous craftsmanship.
• Employment opportunities for local women, involving them in handicrafts, storytelling, and hospitality services.

“My ultimate goal is to make the museum a self-sustaining heritage site—one that doesn’t just preserve Monpa culture but actively empowers the local community,” Chomu explained.

Through cultural tourism and traditional skill development, she hopes to ensure that Monpa heritage remains a living tradition rather than a relic of the past.

“Unlike conventional museums that display artifacts behind glass, this living museum allows visitors to step into a real Monpa household—where traditions are still alive,” Chomu concluded.

Her efforts serve as a remarkable example of how cultural preservation can be both a personal mission and a community-driven movement, ensuring that heritage is not just remembered but experienced.