TURA: The much awaited Ahaia Winter Festival kicked off here on Tuesday with a mega carnival which showcased the vibrant culture, unity of religion and celebration of life.
The carnival was flagged off by Chief Secretary Barkos Warjri in the presence of Principal Secretary, R K Mishra and West Garo Hills Deputy Commissioner, Pravin Bakshi among other dignitaries from Chandmari playground.
The carnival passed through the main thoroughfare of the town and culminated at Dikki Bandi Stadium, Dakopgre.
The carnival was led by “Cariz Dreamz”, which was based on this year’s Ahaia theme – “celebrating life”. The contingent had beautiful dancing belles and the drummers all dressed in Venetian masks, fancy headgear and colourful costumes which won accolades.
The four-day festival was then formally inaugurated at Dikki Bandi Stadium by Sports and Youth Affairs Minister, Zenith Sangma in the presence of parliamentary secretary Noverfield Marak and Bajengdoba legislator Brigady Marak.
Speaking on the occasion Sangma said that the government intends to take the festivals of Garo Hills to “bigger levels”. “The festival demonstrates cultural heritage and tradition and vis-à-vis creates a platform for the people to showcase their talent,” Sangma said. Mooting that aggressive marketing and promotion of Garo Hills was need of the hour, the Sports Minister said, “Efforts are on to promote Garo Hills as a winter destination.” Stating that government’s programmes were aimed at uplifting the socio-economic condition of the people, he said, “The growth of the people will ensure actual development of the region.”