New Delhi, Oct 9 : A landmark coffee table book trilogy on Arunachal Pradesh, titled The Sap Runs Perennial, Ladders to Heaven, and The Wild Green Kingdom, was launched at Vanijya Bhawan, New Delhi, today. Arunachal Pradesh Governor Lt Gen KT Parnaik (Retd.), along with Union Minister Kiren Rijiju, Chief Minister Pema Khandu, Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Statistics and Programme Implementation and Planning, and Minister of State for Culture, Rao Inderjit Singh, and Vice Chairman of NITI Aayog, Dr. Ashok K. Lahiri unveiled the publication.
Authored by eminent military historian, author, photographer and documentary filmmaker Shiv Kunal Verma, the trilogy has been supported by Vallabh Bhansali, Trustee of the Global Vipassana Foundation and Co-founder and Chairman of ENAM Securities, in collaboration with the Government of Arunachal Pradesh.
Speaking on the occasion, the Governor described the publication as far more than a collection of photographs, calling it a comprehensive portrayal of Arunachal Pradesh as a living civilisation shaped by vibrant cultures, enduring spiritual traditions and extraordinary natural wealth. He said the trilogy captures the essence of the State’s indigenous communities, their customs, festivals, crafts and traditional knowledge, while also highlighting its monasteries, sacred sites, indigenous faiths and deep spiritual heritage. The volumes further showcase Arunachal Pradesh’s pristine forests, rivers, mountains, wildlife, orchids and rich biodiversity, presenting a holistic picture of the State’s unique identity, he said.
Emphasizing the importance of the publication, Parnaik termed it “a window to Arunachal Pradesh and an ambassador for the State.” He noted that the books would introduce national and international audiences to the State’s cultural richness, ecological treasures and tourism potential. By reaching embassies, institutions, libraries and readers across the world, the trilogy would enhance awareness of Arunachal Pradesh and inspire greater interest among travellers, researchers, photographers, cultural enthusiasts and investors, he said.
The Governor also underscored the book’s role in preserving and documenting the heritage of Arunachal Pradesh, home to 23 major tribes and more than 100 sub-tribes, each contributing distinct traditions, languages and cultural practices. He said the publication would serve as an enduring record for future generations while encouraging young people to value and preserve their heritage.
Highlighting the State’s progress, Parnaik said the trilogy presents a contemporary Arunachal Pradesh that is advancing in connectivity, tourism, agriculture, entrepreneurship, education and infrastructure while remaining firmly rooted in its cultural and ecological values. He commended author Shri Shiv Kunal Verma for creating a remarkable visual and literary archive that captures both the beauty of the landscape and the spirit of its people. He also appreciated Shri Vallabh Bhansali for his generous support in bringing the publication to fruition.
Expressing confidence in the enduring impact of the trilogy, the Governor said the books would carry the stories, landscapes and aspirations of Arunachal Pradesh far beyond its borders, inspiring people to discover, appreciate and celebrate the Land of the Rising Sun for generations to come.