Pangsau Pass Festival 2025

January 21, 2025

The Pangsau Pass International Festival (PPIF) 2025, held in Arunachal Pradesh, celebrates the region’s cultural heritage and its historical significance during World War II. Chief Minister Pema Khandu announced plans to enhance tourism by restoring World War II remnants in Nampong, denoting the festival’s role in promoting economic growth and cultural exchange. This year’s festival coincides with the 80th anniversary of the war’s conclusion.

Key Facts about Pangsau Pass

Location and Altitude:
- Pangsau Pass (Pan Saung Pass) is located on the India-Myanmar border at an altitude of 3,727 feet (1,136 meters).
- It lies on the crest of the Patkai Hills and is part of the famous Ledo Road (Stilwell Road).
- It is named after the Myanmar village Pangsau, located 2 km east of the pass.
Geographical Importance:
- The pass serves as one of the easiest routes into Myanmar from the Assam plains.
- India’s easternmost point, Chaukan Pass, lies northeast of Pangsau Pass in Arunachal Pradesh’s Changlang district.
Historical Significance:
- 13th Century: Used by the Ahoms, a Shan tribe, to enter Assam.
- British Era:
  - The pass was surveyed for a potential railway route connecting India to Myitkyina in north Burma through the Hukawng Valley, but no railway was constructed.
  - British engineers surveyed and prospected the Patkai Range for a road from Assam into northern Burma.
- World War II:
  - The Stilwell Road (Ledo Road) was constructed to connect British India to Nationalist China to support their fight against Japanese forces.
  - Pangsau Pass, nicknamed “Hell Pass”, was the first major obstacle on the route due to steep gradients and muddy terrain.
  - The Stilwell Road connected Ledo (Assam) to Pangsau Pass, covering a distance of 61 km (38 mi).
Present Day:
- Pangsau Pass Winter Festival:
  - Held annually since 2007 in Nampong, Arunachal Pradesh, during the 3rd week of January.
  - Promotes cultural exchange between Northeast India and Myanmar.
  - Features folk dances (Bihu, Bamboo dance, Tangsa Rongrand War dance), arts, crafts, ethnic foods, and traditional sports, showcasing the culture of the Tangsa Naga tribe and other local communities.

Historical Significance

Nampong is a key site for World War II history. The region served as important supply route for Allied forces. Key locations include the Stilwell Road and the Lake of No Return, both tied to wartime events.

World War II Cemetery

The Jairampur cemetery, discovered by Assam Rifles in the 1990s, contains over 1,000 graves. It is the largest World War II cemetery in India, spanning three acres. It serves as a poignant reminder of the war’s impact.

Tourism Development

The state government plans to restore war remnants to boost tourism. Initiatives include improving infrastructure and connectivity in the Tirap, Changlang, and Longding districts. This aims to attract more visitors to the region.

Cross-Border Cultural Exchange

During the festival, visitors can cross into Myanmar without passports. This encourages cultural exchange and trade between the two nations, enhancing community ties.

International Participation

The festival attracted a 150-member delegation from Myanmar, promoting mutual cooperation and cultural exchange. Events at the festival highlight shared histories and encourage relationships between communities.

Memorialisation Efforts

A tank from the war has been installed at the cemetery entrance, symbolising remembrance. The festival encourages visits to sites of historical significance, enhancing awareness of the region’s wartime legacy.

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