By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Nov 16: The lesser known traditional dances of Meghalaya on Thursday found a platform where its rich cultural heritage was showcased.
This was made possible through a programme organised as part of the Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas – Tribal Pride Week celebration, by Sankardev College, Shillong, in collaboration with the Department of Arts and Culture, at U Soso Tham Auditorium.
The theme of the event was ‘Synthesis of Rhythm and Art: Revisiting and Promoting the Cultural Heritage of Meghalaya’.
The programme endeavoured to give a platform to all the beautiful dances of the state including the lesser known ones.
It also aimed to document the history behind the specific dance and showcase the dress and ornaments worn as well as the different musical instruments and styles. It also aims to generate awareness and imbibe knowledge of the rich heritage of the state among the younger generations.
Altogether a total 22 dance troupes from various parts of the state took part in the programme. From the Khasi Hills, the dances were ‘Ka Shad Suk Mynsiem’, ‘Ka Shad Mastieh (Ha Tbian Ki Sur Hara), ‘Ka Shad Mastieh (Hima Khyrim)’, ‘Ka Shad Thma’ and ‘Ka Shad Shutwait’.
‘Ka Shad Skain’ was from Wahkhen, ‘Ka Shad Kiew Iing’ was from Nongstoin, ‘Ka Shad Rongkhli’ from Nongtalang, ‘Ka Shad Khynrum from Lynngam’.
From Ri-Bhoi, the dances were ‘Ka Shad Nguh Meikha’, ‘Ka Shad Rah Kynthei’, ‘Ka Shad Bhoi Lasa’, ‘Ka Shad Krud Kba’ and ‘Ka shad Iapngar’. Besides these, there was the Domahi dance from the Karbi community.
The dances from the Jaintia Hills were ‘Chad Lahooh’, ‘Chad Sukra’ and ‘Chad Kylla Pliang’.
From Garo Hills the dances included ‘Wangala’, ‘Ruga’, ‘Hajong and Koch’ dances.
These various dances of the Khasi, Jaintia and the Garo Hills regions are highly symbolical with each telling a tale of thanksgiving, of chivalry, bravery, happiness as well as sorrow.
Arts and Culture Minister Paul Lyngdoh, who was the chief guest of the programme, appreciated the college’s efforts in preserving and promoting the cultural heritage of the state.
College Principal Dr Eureka FP Lyngdoh delivered the welcome address, while faculty member Evarilang Tariang spoke about the intent and objectives of the programme.
Others who were present included Commissioner and Secretary Frederick Kharkongor, Secretary F Doph, Vice Chancellor of MLCU Prof T Kharbamon, Padma Shri Theilin Phanbuh, Sangeet Natak Akademi awardee and Padma Shri Silbi Passah, among others.