From sustainability initiatives to the inclusion of indigenous sports and community engagement, the 5th Meghalaya Games 2024 transcends conventional sporting events, finds Monojit Mondal
The 5th Meghalaya Games 2024 transcended its conventional boundaries. Going beyond the realms of conventional sports promotion, it delved into deeper aspects, embracing indigenous games, and championing causes such as sustainability and eco-friendly practices. The event also emphasised on community engagement and participant engagement, aiming to not only entertain but also educate the younger generation. In a concerted effort to inspire a holistic lifestyle, the games encouraged an active yet environment-friendly approach, fostering a sense of responsibility towards both personal health and the well-being of the planet.In an exclusive interview with Sunday Shillong, President of the Meghalaya State Olympic Association (MSOA) and a member of the 5th Meghalaya Games organising committee, John F Kharshiing revealed that this year’s event in Tura goes beyond a mere compilation of competitive sports.
Meghalaya, renowned for its cultural heritage, has seamlessly woven local traditions into the fabric of the 5th Meghalaya Games. The inclusion of indigenous sports such as Wa’pong sika from Garo Hills, Mawpoin from Khasi Hills, and Rah Mukhrah from Jaintia Hills reflects a commitment to preserving and celebrating the region’s diverse cultural tapestry. The opening ceremony showcased traditional dances and customs from all three major tribes, adding a vibrant and culturally significant dimension to the Games.
“The 5th Meghalaya Games seamlessly integrated the rich cultural heritage of the region into the event, making it a celebration of both sports and culture, more so with the inclusion of three indigenous sports. Wa’pong sika (From Garo Hills), Mawpoin (From Khasi Hills ), Rah Mukhrah (From Jaintia Hills),” said Kharshiing
Amidst the global push for sustainability, the Games have embraced eco-friendly practices to align with broader commitments to environmental responsibility. The organisers have implemented measures to conserve water and electricity, including advisories to athletes, conservation protocols, and regular monitoring mechanisms. Buffet services aimed at minimising packed lunches further contribute to the eco-friendly ethos of the event.
“With the ongoing global emphasis on sustainability we have attempted where possible to include practices to conserve water and electricity as much as possible, keeping in mind the occasional scarcity of resources in the area.Even Buffet services allowed minimising of packed lunches, and hot food was provided as a result,” Kharshiing added.
The success of the Games is not solely attributed to the organising committee but also to the enthusiastic participation of the local community and various stakeholders. Tura, the host city, witnessed active involvement from its residents, who engaged in local beautification programs to clean up and decorate the city. The local institutions, with students on holiday, generously volunteered their infrastructure, leaving a lasting legacy of improved sports facilities for years to come.
“The communities engaged in local beautification programs to clean up and decorate the city. The local institutions also volunteered their Infrastructure for the Games as the students were on holiday,” MSOA president said.
Participant engagement and sportsmanship have been at the forefront of the Games, fostering a positive and inclusive experience for athletes from diverse backgrounds. Accommodations have been strategically allocated by sport, allowing athletes from different regions to bond through their shared love for sports. Musical events organised through the Meghalaya Grassroots Music Project have further enhanced the camaraderie among athletes. The Department of Tourism is facilitating short trips to popular tourist spots, fostering cultural exchange and understanding.
“Sport is a unifying factor, transcending culture, language, and religion. The Games have been curated in a way that allows athletes from all regions to bond with each other through sport, allocating accommodation sports-wise,” said Kharshiing
The meticulous planning and preparation for the 5th Meghalaya Games have been unprecedented, considering the unique challenges and circumstances of hosting the event in Tura. Despite limited accommodation and developing sports infrastructure, the District Administration, MSOA, and the Department of Sports and Youth Affairs worked collaboratively to ensure the city was ready to host the Games. This included comprehensive planning across stakeholders and effective communication with institutions hosting various events.
“The Games are meant to be a legacy event under the Department of Youth Affairs and Sports, held every year. This is the first time the Games have been held in Tura, a city with limited Accommodation and developing Sports Infrastructure.The District Administration, the MSOA, and the Department of Sports and Youth Affairs worked tirelessly in coordination to ensure that the city successfully host the Games,” MSOA president added.
In conclusion, the 5th Meghalaya Games stands as a testament to the fusion of sport, culture, and sustainability. Beyond the medals and victories, the event reflects a commitment to preserving cultural heritage, embracing eco-friendly practices, and fostering inclusivity and sportsmanship. The legacy left behind in Tura is not just one of sporting achievements but also of community spirit and environmental consciousness.