Taro Chatung: a Pioneer in Film & Journalism of Arunachal Pradesh

Taro Chatung, the man who changed the face of journalism in Arunachal Pradesh. He was best known as a pioneer in the field of film-making and journalism, he was also a leader, an officer, a mentor at different times in his life.

Biography of Taro Chatung

Taro Chatung who shaped the narrative of local journalism and filmmaking. His legacy extends beyond his roles as a pioneer, leader, officer, and mentor, defining him as a man ahead of his time.

Early Life and Education:

Born on March 1, 1963, in Hija Village, Ziro, raised by his late father, Taro Talyang. His early education took place in Hija Village, and later at Don Bosco School, Tezpur.

Taro further pursued his college education at a degree college in Itanagar, affiliated with Chandigarh University and In 1984, graduated from Punjab University.

In 1987 he cracked the Arunachal Pradesh Civil Services (APPSC) exam, securing the position of Circle Officer in Anini district, Lower Dibang Valley.

However, driven by an passion for filmmaking and journalism, Taro made a bold decision to resign from his government job, demonstrating his fearless spirit and commitment to pursuing his dreams.

Taro Chatung Filmmaking:

Taro Chatung’s fascination with the camera was ignited by the storytelling prowess of Hong Kong cinema and Bollywood narratives. This cinematic enthusiasm culminated in 1986 when he made history by directing his first film, Donyi, In 1986, becoming the first indigenous Arunachali individual to direct a feature film. Donyi delved into the subject of inter-community marriage, reflecting Taro’s advocacy for inter-tribal unions.

Later he made more films, including Meri Zindagi, Magnum Opus and Frontier Students. These films not only marked significant milestones in his life and Arunachali cinema but also addressed pressing social issues, lives of indigenous, modernization.

Venture into Journalism:

His last movie was Frontier Students after that In 1999, he transitioned into journalism, founding the news program “News and Views” which aired on Doordarshan Kendra, Itanagar. Covering diverse topics such as current affairs, politics, picnics, and cleanliness drives.

Taro’s direct and sometimes awkward questioning style became legendary, earning him a reputation for seeking the truth and making him a household name across the state.

His signature question, was “Apka ghar jal gaya, Apko kesa lag raha hai?” (Your house is on fire, how do you feel?) remains in the memories of lots of Arunachali.

Newspaper and Leadership:

In 2006, Taro further diversified his contributions to the media landscape by founding the daily newspaper company “Frontier Voice.” Serving as the publisher and editor, he continued to make significant contributions to print journalism. Additionally, he held the position of the president of the Arunachal Pradesh Union of Working Journalists from 2006 to 2010.

Legacy and Final Years:

Taro Chatung’s unique interview style, characterized by a distinctive and almost artistic tone, became a hallmark of his later years. Though his questioning style garnered admiration, it also brought him into conflict with those uncomfortable with accountability. “News and Views” had a profound impact on Arunachali society, making Taro Chatung a hero for his timely reporting and dedication to preserving the rights of the average citizen.

After falling ill and battling moths for his life On October 26, 2019, Taro Chatung passed away, leaving behind a legacy as a man who shaped the film and journalism of Arunachal Pradesh.