Shamanism is a lifeblood of most tribes in Arunachal Pradesh. Shamans are called seers, communicators, doctors, specialists in rituals, and practitioners of religion. They do not belong to the same category as sorcerers and mystics. They are mediators between human beings and spirits-the gateway between the physical and the spiritual.

The Tani, who are strong believers in the spirit world, consult shamans as messengers between the two worlds. Clan-specific religious specialists invoke blessing from the spirits, seek their protection, and ward off evil. Apart from giving and taking, shamans are said to induce the favor of the spirits for the well-being and prosperity of the people. They also possess thorough knowledge of legends, myths, and ritual incantations.

Shamanism is very much in vogue among the tribes of Arunachal Pradesh. Every tribe has respective ritual experts to carry out ceremony and sacrifices. Among the Tani, shamanism originated with the very emergence of mankind and is thus considered the most ancient vocation. Interestingly, the Buddhist tribes in Arunachal Pradesh still have native priests performing some special rituals, while having lamas as their spiritual leaders. This is also practiced by tribes such as the Wancho, Nocte, and Tangsa who call upon their respective native priests to perform ceremonies of their tradition. Shamans are the keepers of the spiritual and material heritage of Arunachal Pradesh, a living thread in tribal social life.