SHILLONG, July 23: In a significant moment for the academic and cultural life of Meghalaya, two publications — His Story: Trailblazing Men of Meghalaya and His Footprints in Time: Meghalaya’s Trailblazers and the Making of Modern India — were officially released by Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma, during a special function at the Chief Minister’s Office, Secretariat.
Both books have been conceptualised and edited by Dr David Arnold Kharchandy, Secretary of the Centre for Historical Research and faculty member of the Department of History, Synod College, Shillong. The event also had in attendance president of the Governing Body of Synod College, Rev ER Kharkrang, College Principal Dr G Lyngdoh, IQAC Coordinator Dr W Kharmawphlang, besides faculty and office staff.
His Story: Trailblazing Men of Meghalaya is a richly illustrated coffee table book sponsored by the Chief Minister’s Special Grant. It features biographical profiles of 37 exceptional men who have made pathbreaking contributions in diverse fields such as politics, education, religion, public service, environmental activism, the military, and the creative arts. Through rare photographs and accessible narratives, the book serves as a visual and inspirational archive of Meghalaya’s modern journey.
Complementing the coffee table book is His Footprints in Time: Meghalaya’s Trailblazers and the Making of Modern India, an anthology of 35 scholarly essays that delve into the lives and legacies of individuals whose work has shaped both regional and national narratives. The volume includes essays on pioneers such as Purno A Sangma, Prof GG Swell, Rev JJM Nichols-Roy, Captain Clifford K Nongrum, Neil Nongkynrih, Rev Dr Amos C Moore, Brian D Kharpran Daly, Pushpindra Mehra, Hally War, and many more. The book draws on archival sources, oral histories, and field research to present a comprehensive picture of Meghalaya’s contribution to India’s modern identity.
Speaking at the event, the chief minister lauded the Centre for Historical Research Synod College for their initiative in documenting the legacy of the state’s trailblazers. He emphasised the importance of preserving such histories as a source of identity and inspiration, particularly for the youth of Meghalaya.
