Ampati gears up for Dimchrang, Kite fests
AMPATI: With the onset of winter, Garo Hills is geared up for a series of activities, rock concert, beauty pageant, talent shows to name a few.
The festive season gives an opportunity to the locals to engage in merriment in an area otherwise marred by insurgent activities, protests etc.
At Ampati in South West Garo Hills, an elaborate preparation is on for the much-awaited annual winter extravaganza – “Dimchrang festival 2015” and “Kite festival”, which is being presented by Meghalaya Tourism.
The theme for this year, “A Rendezvous with Culture” aims to showcase the “lifestyle and cultural kaleidoscope of the different communities” – Garo, Hajong and Koch. The event will also provide a platform for the youths to display their skills and expertise in indigenous sports, singing, dancing etc.
The highlights of the event include “Voice of Dimchrang, Dimchrang Queen beauty pageant, futsal (5-a-side football tournament) among others.
The main attraction of the event, however, will be a rock show, where top bands from Garo Hills, Riprap and Restless Desire will do the opening act for Axis, a Guwahati-based rock band.
The event organised by Ampati Arts and Cultural Society in collaboration with District Administration South West Garo Hills will be held at Ampati mini stadium from December 16-17.
Chief Minister Mukul Sangma will inaugurate both the festivals and flag off the cultural parade, fancy dress and carnival.
William Initiative, a Tura-based NGO is managing the event in partnership with local youth clubs and self-help groups (SHGs).
“We have devised the cultural parade, fancy dress and carnival on several themes, which will showcase vibrant culture, rich rendition and display the mosaic culture and co-existence of the indigenous people of South West Garo Hills”, said Gino Sangma of William Initiative.
The organisers have rolled out an array of activities to add life and colour to Dimchrang Festival.
The organizers have urged the youths to take full advantage of the platform.
Speaking to media on Ampati Kite Festival, District Tourist Officer, South West Garo Hills, Trida B. Sangma said, “The main attraction is a kite making competition, kids carnival, air show and food arena”.
She also informed that international kite flyer Gopal Patel and his team from Gujarat will also take part in the event. “We are expecting that people will not only get an opportunity to witness kites in the sky but will get skill and knowledge on kite making”.