From Kynsai L Sangriang
Mawkyrwat, Feb 26: Meghalaya and the world will witness an extraordinary showcase of handcrafted stringed musical instruments at Shillong Club, Shillong, on Friday. These instruments are the creations of Markynsai Diengdoh, a renowned self-taught luthier from Markasa village in Eastern West Khasi Hills district of Meghalaya.
Diengdoh’s journey to success has been anything but easy. He has faced numerous challenges, often confronting the harsh realities of pursuing a dream that seemed unattainable for someone from his background. Born on February 28, 1987, in Lawbyrtun village (formerly part of West Khasi Hills), Diengdoh’s early life was marked by hardship. He lost his father, Basandar L Nonglait, to cancer at a young age, and with his family’s financial struggles, his dream of becoming a musician like his father seemed impossible. However, determined to build a better future, he completed his Bachelor of Arts in History from Synod College, Shillong. He currently works as an Assistant Revenue Enforcement Inspector at the Deputy Commissioner’s office in Eastern West Khasi Hills, Mairang.
Though it was too late for him to learn music and follow in his father’s footsteps as a musician, his love for music never faded. The sound of musical instruments constantly haunted him, keeping his passion alive. Inspired by his father, he decided to contribute to music in a different way — by crafting instruments. However, local pressure forced him to abandon his dreams and shift to making furniture.
Diengdoh has handcrafted a variety of instruments, including Ukulele, Acoustic Guitar (6-string & 12-string), Resonator Guitar (Biscuit Bridge & Spider Bridge), Mandolin, Mountain Banjos (various types), Acoustic Aluminum Body Guitar, Acoustic Lap Steel Guitar (Hawaiian style), Acoustic Bass, Electric Lap Steel Guitar, Flutes (Indian & Native American styles) Duitara, Maryngod, and Saitar (a modified sitar).
Excerpts on P-4
