From Our Correspondent
NONGPOH, March 21: The much-awaited Shad Sajer Festival, a cornerstone of Elaka Nongpoh’s annual cultural calendar, has been abruptly cancelled. The decision was announced at a press briefing held at the Community Hall of Pahamsyiem, Nongpoh on Thursday evening.
The Shad Sajer Committee, led by Chairman Luistar Lyngdoh, made the announcement, citing a protest against recent actions of the Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council (KHADC). The festival, slated to take place on March 23, 2024, at Lum Wyrtoh in Nongpoh, was expected to be a grand affair, showcasing the rich heritage and traditions of the region.
However, the committee’s decision to cancel the event stems from the KHADC’s controversial move to remove Pillarstone Syiem as the Acting Sirdar of Elaka. This decision was swiftly followed by an order reinstating Wanphrang Syiem Nongshai as the full-fledged Sirdar of Elaka Nongpoh, sparking outrage and unrest among the protesting leaders of different Raid’s under Elaka Nongpoh. Preparations for the Shad Sajer Festival had been in full swing for weeks, promising an unprecedented scale of celebration. The event was poised to showcase the vibrant culture, rich history, and unique way of life of the region’s diverse Raids, with numerous dignitaries and guests set to attend.
In a statement, committee chairman Luistar Lyngdoh expressed regret over the cancellation, extending apologies to residents of Elaka Nongpoh, invitees, and the wider Hynniewtrep community. However, he emphasised that the cancellation served as a poignant protest against the KHADC’s controversial decision to reinstall Wanphrang Syiem Nongshai as Sirdar of Elaka Nongpoh.