Arunachal’s heritage craft revived: 1,000-year-old Monpa handmade paper makes a comeback

Dirang’s Chug Valley in Arunachal Pradesh is witnessing a revival of its 1,000-year-old handmade paper-making tradition, thanks to the dedicated efforts of local artisan Dorjee Choijom and the Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC). This heritage craft, which once thrived as an essential part of Monpa culture, had nearly vanished over the last century.

The Monpa Handmade Paper, locally known as Mon Shugu, holds deep historical and religious significance. Traditionally, it was used for writing Buddhist scriptures and hymns in monasteries. The paper is crafted from the bark of the Shugu Sheng tree, which is not only abundant in the region but also has medicinal properties.

Centuries ago, this fine-textured paper was a primary source of livelihood for communities in Tawang and West Kameng districts. It was widely traded with countries like Tibet, Bhutan, Thailand, and Japan, as these nations lacked paper-making industries at the time. However, the industry declined over the last 100 years, with Chinese-made paper replacing the indigenous product.

KVIC has been instrumental in reviving this lost art. By bringing Monpa Handmade Paper to the online market, it has provided artisans like Dorjee Choijom an opportunity to reach a wider audience. Choijom, who is actively selling the paper online, emphasizes its importance in Monpa culture, particularly in traditional agreements and marriage bonds.