Pinewood Hotel to hold centenary celebration with 4-day event
SHILLONG, Dec 17: The Pinewood Hotel will host a four-day event titled ‘Reminiscing Pinewood’ to celebrate its centenary as an iconic heritage property. Organised by the Meghalaya Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC) and curated by Piam La Tynrai, the event will be held from December 20 to 23. Speaking to reporters on Tuesday, MTDC Director Alan West Kharkongor, who is also the convener of the organising committee, highlighted the significant role Pinewood Hotel has played in the cultural and social fabric of Shillong. The event aims to honour the hotel’s rich history, cultural significance and enduring charm through immersive activities, including theatrical performances, exhibitions, storytelling sessions, symposiums, live music and interactive engagements. A major highlight will be a theatrical performance of A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens. Similarly, in collaboration with the North East India AV Archive, an exhibition of archived photographs and memorabilia spanning the hotel’s 126-year history will offer visitors a rare glimpse into its past. This exhibition will trace the hotel’s evolution, its role in significant events, and its connection with the local community. Meanwhile, guests have been encouraged to contribute vintage photographs to enrich the visual narrative. Similarly, a series of storytelling sessions under the theme ‘Heart to Heart with Heritage’ will be held, allowing families to share personal stories and experiences. A symposium featuring historians, folklorists, anthropologists, literary figures, natural scientists, cultural geographers and other experts will provide insights into Pinewood Hotel’s historical, cultural and natural significance. The event will also feature musical performances, with the Cathedral Band performing Christmas carols. A live jukebox will allow attendees to share their favourite songs linked to memories of the hotel. Kharkongor revealed that a 1966 menu was discovered during efforts to trace antiques at Pinewood. This menu, he informed, will be recreated and served during the event. While entry to ‘Reminiscing Pinewood’ is free, tickets for the Vintage Vinyl Night, priced at Rs 2000, will include music and dinner featuring the recreated 1966 menu.
State inks MoU to solar-power over 2,000 Anganwadi centres
Shillong, Dec 17: The Meghalaya government has partnered with SELCO Foundation to solar power over 2,000 Anganwadi centres, aiming to enhance childcare delivery and education systems across the state. The collaboration, announced on Tuesday, focuses on integrating sustainable energy and climate-smart infrastructure to improve services in early childhood care and development. Speaking at the event, Principal Secretary and CEO of the Meghalaya Early Child Development Mission, Sampath Kumar, highlighted the transformative potential of the initiative. “By bridging gaps with innovative, localised, and durable solutions, we ensure no community is left behind. This approach can serve as a model for the nation,” he said. The project will provide uninterrupted early education, health, and nutrition services, directly benefiting children, mothers, and the broader community. It will also strengthen disaster resilience and create optimal learning environments. CEO and Founder of SELCO Foundation, Dr Harish Hande, emphasised the importance of holistic childcare. “The first few years of a child’s life are critical for societal development. Climate-smart solutions can create spaces where children can learn, play and grow,” he stated. The initiative includes upgrading existing Anganwadi centres with solar power and child-friendly designs, alongside constructing 200 new Early Childhood Development Centres to ensure long-term sustainability and resilience.
Governor lauds ex-servicemen
SHILLONG, Dec 17: Governor CH Vijayashankar on Tuesday commended the dedication and sacrifices of the ex-servicemen, who have served as steadfast guardians of the nation’s safety and honour. Speaking as the chief guest at the Ex-Servicemen Rally 2024 held at Gaje Ghale Ground, 58 GTC, Happy Valley, Shillong, the Governor said their unwavering readiness to lay down their lives to protect the country’s freedom and sovereignty commands the deepest gratitude and respect from every citizen. Besides Governor Vijayashankar, the event was attended by Senior Air Staff Officer, EAC, Air Marshal IS Walia (AVSM and VM); GOC 101 Area, Lt Gen Sanjay Malik; Commandant, ARC and Station Commander, HQ 101 Area, Brig Neelesh Anand Pagulwar (SC, SM and VSM); and Commandant 58 GTC, Brig Joe Sabby.