CM unveils plans for grand golden jubilee celebrations
From Our Correspondent
TURA, Nov 6: The 49th edition of the Hundred Drums Wangala Festival commenced on Thursday at Wangala A.dam, the permanent site-cum-Garo Heritage Village in Chibragre, West Garo Hills.
The colourful celebration was attended by Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma as the chief guest, in the presence of Gambegre MLA Mehtab Chandee, Chief Secretary Dr. Shakil P. Ahammed, West Garo Hills Deputy Commissioner Vibhor Aggarwal, and other dignitaries and officials.
The Wangala Festival, a grand thanksgiving ceremony dedicated to Misi Saljong, the Sun God, is a vibrant expression of the rich cultural heritage of the Garo tribe. The day witnessed traditional dances, music, and indigenous games such as Wa.pong sika, Jakpong Pe.a, and Rongma De.usaa. Ten contingents from different regions of Garo Hills participated, including Tosekgre — the first champion of the Hundred Drums Wangala in 1976 — marking their return after more than two decades.
The inaugural programme began with a prayer and the Dimdim Dimchong Dachichong song, followed by a welcome address delivered by Ronald Rikman Sangma, Chairman of the Hundred Drums Wangala Festival Committee and Garo Heritage Village. A special dance was presented by the ASA unit of NEHU, Tura, followed by the introductory round of the Hundred Drums Wangala.
In his address, the chief minister acknowledged the tireless efforts of all individuals and communities who have contributed to the successful organisation of the Hundred Drums Wangala Festival over the past 49 years. He expressed satisfaction with the improvement of the approach road to Wangala A.dam and assured that all remaining works would be completed ahead of the Golden Jubilee celebration next year.
Announcing a financial assistance of Rs 25 lakh to the Hundred Drums Wangala Committee, along with a personal contribution, the chief minister said that the state government would accord special attention to preparations for the 50th-year celebration in 2026.
He highlighted that people from across Meghalaya as well as India and abroad are expected to attend the golden jubilee celebration, and therefore, the festival must be organised on a grand scale. To ensure smooth coordination, the chief minister proposed the formation of a state-level Wangala Committee comprising representatives from all relevant departments to work closely with the Wangala Committee.
He further announced that the upcoming Golden Jubilee would feature a grand “One Thousand Drums Wangala Festival,” a dream envisioned by his late father, (L) PA Sangma.
Highlighting the government’s commitment to preserve and promote the rich cultural traditions of Meghalaya, the chief minister informed that under the Chief Minister’s Research Grant, 50 students and researchers are being supported annually with ₹3 lakh each to study and document the culture, history, customs and traditions of the Garo, Khasi and Jaintia tribes. He mentioned that several researchers from Garo Hills have already published works under this initiative.
He encouraged the Wangala Committee members to similarly undertake research and documentation of various aspects of Wangala — including its rhythmic beats, ritual practices, and symbolic meanings — so that they can be preserved and passed on to future generations.
The chief minister also suggested that the Garo Heritage Village should not remain active only during the Wangala Festival but should host cultural and training activities throughout the year, assuring government support for such initiatives.
Addressing the gathering, the chief secretary emphasised the importance of preserving cultural identity while adapting to modernity. He urged the younger generation to value their traditions, environment, and heritage.
The day also featured a Master Chef-cum-Indigenous Slow Food Competition, showcasing traditional Garo delicacies such as Brenga and We.tepa, promoting the region’s culinary and cultural heritage.
With its vibrant performances, indigenous sports and strong community participation, the Hundred Drums Wangala Festival continues to stand as a symbol of unity, identity and pride for the people of Meghalaya.
