Itanagar, Jul 30: Renowned traditional priest (Nyibu), senior community leader and social worker Gogiam Gumja Tamin passed away on Thursday after a prolonged illness, leaving behind a rich legacy of service to the Tagin community and the Tamin clan.
He breathed his last at around 7 am at the Tomo Riba Institute of Health and Medical Sciences (TRIHMS). He was 58.
Born on April 12, 1968, at Dignium village under Giba circle in Upper Subansiri district, Gogiam Gumja Tamin, later, settled at Legirijo village under Sigin-I Block, where he devoted his life to preserving indigenous faith, customary practices and community welfare.
A highly respected Nyibu, he played a pivotal role in promoting the spiritual and cultural traditions of the Tagin community. He also served as Gaon Burah (GB) of Yekar (Legirijo) and joint secretary of the Sigin-I Upper Subansiri District Nyibu Association.
Over the years, he officiated as chief priest at several major Si-Donyi Hilo celebrations, including the Central Si-Donyi Hilo celebrations at Daporijo in 2013 and 2016. He also led the Sikarijo Si-Donyi Hilo celebrations on four occasions and served twice as chief priest of the Si-Donyi Hilo Celebration Committee in Itanagar.
Expressing profound grief over the passing of the renowned priest, Tamin Welfare Society (TWS) president Er Taanu Tamin described him as one of the community's finest sons whose unwavering commitment to unity, cultural preservation and social harmony earned him widespread respect.
"He was a guiding force for the Tamin community and dedicated his life to bringing people together through the values of Donyi-Polo, tradition and mutual respect. His legacy will continue to inspire generations," the TWS said in a condolence message.
He is survived by his two wives, five sons, three daughters and 12 grandchildren.
His mortal remains were taken to his residence at Legirijo village on Thursday evening, where hundreds of relatives, community members and well-wishers gathered to pay their final respects. His last rites will be performed on August 1 at his residence.
The TWS expressed heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family and prayed for eternal peace to the departed soul, stating that his contributions to the spiritual, cultural and social advancement of the community would be remembered for generations.