By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Jan 3: The Mawlai Games and Literary Fest 2026 began on an energetic note with an early morning marathon through Mawlai, marking the opening of a multi-day celebration of sport, literature and community participation.
The festival marks the revival of the Mawlai Games and Literary Fest after a gap of 17 years, lending special significance to the occasion for local residents and generations of sportspersons who had awaited its return.
The formal inauguration was held at Madan Heh, Mawlai Phudmuri, where the festival flag was hoisted, a collective pledge was administered and the opening football match was played between Mawdatbaki and Mawtawar. The opening fixture drew a strong turnout and set a competitive tone for the festival.
The event was attended by KL Iawbor, Joint Director of the Directorate of Health Services and the Meghalaya AIDS Control Society, as chief guest, and Herring Shangpliang, veteran footballer and coach of Mawlai Sports Club.
Shangpliang noted that such platforms help young people identify and develop their talents, and said sports can play a unifying role within the community. The Games Pledge was read out by Manbha Kupar Malngiang, a Junior Indian footballer.
Iawbor described the occasion as a historic moment for Mawlai, stating that it reflected months of planning and collective effort.
She highlighted the role of sports in promoting physical fitness and mental strength, while observing that the literary component encourages awareness, reflection and intellectual engagement among youth.
Referring to a Khasi proverb, she linked its message to the festival’s focus on nurturing skills and personal growth.
The platform was also used to address public health concerns.
Speaking about rising HIV cases in Meghalaya, Iawbor outlined modes of transmission and stressing prevention through informed and responsible behaviour.
She said HIV can be effectively managed with access to antiretroviral therapy and urged against stigma, while also highlighting the national toll-free helpline 1097 for confidential information and counselling.
The Mawlai Games and Literary Fest 2026 will continue over the coming days with sporting events, literary programmes and community activities.
