Dubai, September 23, 2025: Arunachal Pradesh’s celebrated folk singer David Angu has brought immense pride to the state by winning the prestigious India International Influencer Award (IIIA) for his outstanding contribution to folk music. The award was presented during the 10th anniversary edition of the IIIA ceremony held at the Hyatt Regency Dubai Creek Heights, UAE, bringing together eminent personalities from music, business, and entertainment industries.
Bollywood star Nora Fatehi presented the honour to Angu, marking a memorable moment in his musical journey. Known not only as a folk singer but also as a guitarist, composer, and producer, Angu has earned acclaim for his ability to blend traditional Arunachalee folk elements with contemporary sounds, creating a unique identity in the Indian music scene.
During the ceremony, when invited by the anchor to sing a Hindi song of his choice, Angu stunned the audience with his powerful and soulful voice, earning a standing ovation. His performance highlighted the versatility and reach of his artistry, connecting with audiences beyond regional boundaries.
Expressing his delight on receiving the award, Angu said, “Thank you so much @iiiaward for honouring me with the International Folk Music Award. This recognition has truly fueled my passion—pumped up to compose more music! The journey begins now.” His words reflected his commitment to preserving and promoting the rich folk traditions of Arunachal Pradesh while exploring innovative musical expressions for global audiences.
The India International Influencer Award, instituted by Eventz Factory under the leadership of Kunal Thakkar, recognises individuals excelling in fields such as music, business, digital content creation, and social influence. Over the past decade, the awards have been hosted in international hubs including Dubai and Kuala Lumpur, celebrating the achievements of global icons and inspiring young talents.
David Angu has emerged as a cultural ambassador for Arunachalee folk music, inspiring younger generations to take pride in their heritage. His award-winning journey has not only brought international recognition to his personal talent but also highlighted the rich cultural tapestry of Arunachal Pradesh to the global stage. Fans and followers from across the North East flooded social media with congratulatory messages, hailing Angu as an inspiration for aspiring artists.
The award also underscores the importance of preserving folk music traditions in today’s fast-evolving musical landscape. By blending traditional melodies with contemporary arrangements, Angu has created a bridge between generations, ensuring that the soul of Arunachalee culture continues to thrive both in India and abroad.
Pema Khandu, Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh, lauded Angu’s achievement on social media, stating, “Folk music is the soul of a community, carrying its stories, traditions, and identity across generations. David Angu, with his mesmerizing voice, guitar, and compositions, has brought Arunachal’s rich folk heritage to the world stage.”
With this recognition, David Angu has firmly placed Arunachal Pradesh on the international music map. The award not only celebrates his personal achievements but also signifies the global relevance of indigenous folk music, encouraging more artists from the region to pursue excellence and innovation.
As the IIIA organisers honoured him, Angu’s journey from local performances in Arunachal Pradesh to the global stage serves as an inspiring story of talent, perseverance, and cultural pride. His dedication to folk music has become a beacon for young artistes, proving that regional art forms can achieve international acclaim when paired with creativity and passion.
ALSO READ: Arunachal Pradesh Observes Swachhata Hi Seva 2025 with Cleanliness Drive at IG Park
David Angu’s recognition at the IIIA awards is being seen as a milestone moment for the state’s music fraternity, highlighting the potential of Arunachal Pradesh to nurture artists who can carry the state’s cultural legacy to global audiences. With his award in hand, Angu is expected to continue composing, performing, and innovating, ensuring that Arunachalee folk music remains vibrant, evolving, and celebrated worldwide.
