By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Oct 13: For the first time, the capital of Meghalaya will not host the annual Shillong Cherry Blossom Festival “to take the Northeast by storm with its most diverse and vibrant programme”.
Instead of Shillong, the festival this time will be held at the RBDSA Sports Complex in Bhoirymbong on the outskirts of the city from November 17-19.
Announcing the festival, Tourism Minister Paul Lyngdoh said the decision to shift the venue was made in view of the ever-increasing traffic congestion.
The festival this year has been touted as an “exceptional headliner line-up and an exciting all-new multi-stage layout at the RBDSA Sports Complex.
The organisers have lined up internationally acclaimed performers such as Ne-Yo, Ronan Keating, Sanam, Jonas Blue, SURL, Pink Panda, Kenny Musik, and an array of local talents, including Meba Ofilia, Lou Majaw, and Blue Temptation, from Shillong and elsewhere in the Northeast.
Ne-Yo, the Grammy Award-winning R&B artist known for his chart-topping hits, and Ronan Keating, the iconic voice behind timeless classics, are expected to provide a magical experience. “Sanam, a YouTube sensation and heartthrob, will steal hearts with his melodious tunes, while Jonas Blue and Pink Panda will keep the energy level soaring with their electrifying performances. The local artists will add their distinctive flavours, creating a harmonious blend of musical talent that is unique to the essence of Shillong.”
Among the other events are cosplay competitions that celebrate the spirit of fantasy and imagination, the Miss and Mr Cherry Blossom pageant, choir contest, graffiti contest, karaoke contest, and art installations to transform the festival grounds into an open-air art gallery.
For the thrill-seekers, there will be the Ferris wheel and ziplining too.
