By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, March 26: The Hynniewtrep Youth Council (HYC) on Thursday launched the ‘Save Khyndailad, Save Our Identity’ campaign by distributing pamphlets at Khyndai Lad, highlighting concerns over the erosion of the area’s cultural and historical significance.
In the pamphlets, the HYC described Khyndai Lad as not just a commercial hub but the historical heart of Shillong and a symbol of Khasi identity, culture, and public life. The organisation expressed concern that the area is gradually “losing its soul,” citing the absence of space for indigenous artistes, lack of platforms for traditional food and crafts, and inadequate representation of its historical importance.
The group warned that if Khyndai Lad loses its identity, Shillong risks losing a vital part of its cultural memory.
As part of its campaign, the HYC has demanded the immediate establishment of a Khyndailad Cultural Centre. The proposed centre would include an open performance arena for Khasi, Jaintia and Garo artistes, permanent stalls for traditional food and indigenous crafts, a heritage gallery and infrastructure reflecting indigenous architectural design.
The council stressed that such a centre is essential for preserving indigenous identity, stating that the absence of cultural spaces could render local communities “invisible in their own land.”
It further highlighted the economic potential of the initiative, noting that a well-planned cultural hub could generate employment opportunities for artistes, food vendors, craft makers and youth entrepreneurs.
The HYC also pointed out that cities across the world invest in cultural spaces and that Shillong deserves a prominent cultural landmark to showcase Khasi heritage globally.
Calling cultural preservation a constitutional responsibility of the state, the organisation urged the government to take immediate steps, including allocation of funds, preparation of a Detailed Project Report, identification of suitable land at Khyndai Lad and consultation with indigenous stakeholders.
The HYC also pressed for a fixed timeline to begin construction, warning that development without cultural identity would amount to erosion of heritage.
