By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, April 2: A noted documentarian and global advocate of Meghalaya’s living-root bridges, Patrick Anselm Rogers, passed away on March 21 at Shnongpdeng at the age of 39 after reportedly suffering a massive cardiac arrest.
A US citizen, Rogers had been a frequent visitor to Meghalaya since 2011 and had returned to the state in the first week of March this year.
He was reportedly travelling in Shnongpdeng at the time of the incident and was brought dead to Dawki Primary Health Centre on the same day.
Khun Kur Longtrai Lai Kynthei Heritage Committee Joint Secretary, Morningstar Khongthaw, said that CCTV footage showed Rogers collapsing at around 12.30 p.m. on March 21.
He added that Rogers had plans to meet him later that day for lunch at his residence in Rangthylliang.
“I was deeply shocked to hear about his demise. We immediately took his body to Ialong Civil Hospital in Jowai, where the post-mortem examination was conducted,” Khongthaw said.
He said that the family of the deceased, through the U.S. Consulate, has authorised him to carry out the last rites.
The cremation is scheduled to be held at Lum Phlang Dkhi on Friday at 2 p.m. under the supervision of the Khun Kur Longtrai Lai Kynthei, custodians of Raid Shabong under the Khyrim Syiemship.
Family members are expected to attend the ceremony virtually.
Official correspondence from Deputy Secretary D.D. Syngai to the West Jaintia Hills Deputy Commissioner stated that the Consulate General of the United States in Kolkata conveyed a no-objection to the cremation and related formalities, including the transportation of Rogers’ ashes to the United States.
Authorities have been requested to extend necessary assistance for the smooth conduct of the last rites.
Paying tribute, Khongthaw described Rogers as more than a visitor, noting that he had developed a deep and meaningful connection with the land and its people.
He said that through years of exploration, writings, and documentation, Rogers played a pivotal role in bringing international recognition to Meghalaya’s unique living root bridges.
“He walked through our forests and villages, often on foot, not just to document but to understand and share the value of this living heritage with the world. His sincerity and love for the land touched many of us,” Khongthaw added.
Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma, in a post on X, grieved the death of Rogers, stating that the living-root bridges community has lost a dedicated supporter.
He noted that Rogers’ contributions helped bring global attention to the region’s ecological heritage and highlighted his humility and deep respect for local communities.
The state government and local community members have extended their condolences to the bereaved family, as arrangements were underway for the cremation and subsequent repatriation of the ashes.
Rogers’ passing has been widely mourned across Meghalaya, particularly among communities connected to the preservation of the living-root bridges, where his work and legacy continue to inspire conservation efforts.
