SHILLONG, April 21: The life-size statues of U Tirot Sing, U Kiang Nangbah and Pa Togan Sangma are soon to come up on the premises of the State Central Library.
Arts and Culture Minister Sanbor Shullai along with Commissioner Secretary of Arts and Culture department Frederick Kharkongor, Director of Arts & Culture department Wanri Booth, archaeologist Kanchana Koch and archivist D Kharjana on Thursday conducted an inspection at the State Central Library for the set-up of the life-size statues. Chief Creative Director of Riti Academy of Visual Arts Raphael Warjri, who will execute the project, was also part of the inspection.
According to a statement, Shullai, during the inspection, said that an amount of Rs 30 lakh has been sanctioned by his department for construction of the same. “The department will ensure 90 days’ time for its completion,” the minister added.
Shullai expressed hope that the initiative will inspire youths to follow in the footsteps of the leaders of Meghalaya in promoting and preserving the culture and heritage of the tribal society.
It is pertinent to note that the life-size statues of the freedom fighters will come up on the existing tower pyramid at the State Central Library.
Shullai also informed that the idea to erect the life-size statues of the freedom fighters was mooted by some local organisations.
Informing that Warjri will execute the artworks, Shullai said, “It is a positive gesture to promote local talents also and Bah Raphael has proven his mettle with the artistic mural at the prominent location of the city.”
It may be mentioned that the state government had earlier informed that the proposal to erect statues on the premises of the State Central Library is part of the yearlong celebration of the 50 years of statehood.