By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Dec 10: Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma on Wednesday underscored the urgent need for deeper documentation of tribal histories, languages, rituals, dance forms and migratory origins, as he warned that critical gaps in recorded knowledge could threaten the preservation of Meghalaya’s cultural identity.
Speaking at the inauguration of the fourth edition of the Tri Hills Ensemble at Ward’s Lake, he pointed out that “in Garo culture alone, there are multiple drum beats and different steps for the Wangala that only drummers can distinguish, but there is no documentation.”
He urged scholars and researchers to utilise platforms such as the Chief Minister’s Research Grant to address these gaps before they widen further.
The chief minister said the festival “brings us back to our roots, highlights different aspects of our culture, showcases them to the world and ensures that the identity and legacy of our people are celebrated and preserved.”
This year’s theme, ‘Rivers, Roots, and Revival’, he noted, reflects a deliberate effort to revive lost traditions, including the historic boating and rowing competitions of Darrang and Dawki.
Even as he said that Meghalaya is “the second fastest-growing economy in the country after Tamil Nadu,” he cautioned that economic progress must never come at the cost of cultural erosion.
Sangma then went on to encourage schools to stage plays on Tirot Sing, Kiang Nongbah and Pa Togan Sangma to nurture pride and unity among young people, and expressed hope that cultural exchanges—both within the state and internationally—would continue to deepen.
It may be mentioned that the opening ceremony of Tri Hills Ensemble began with the felicitation of dignitaries followed by a symbolic handing over of oars to boatmen, marking the festival’s renewed push to revive indigenous water sports and strengthen community-led cultural revival.
Arts & Culture Minister Sanbor Shullai, who was also present on the occasion, said the Tri Hills Ensemble honours the heritage of the Khasi, Jaintia and Garo tribes, celebrating their language, music, cuisine and craftsmanship.
He said that the Meghalaya Arts and Heritage Awards recognise both tradition bearers and young cultural innovators.
Describing the revival of boat races, Shullai said it signified the return of a shared heritage that brings together performers, artisans and youths in a collective effort to sustain age-old practices.
Meanwhile, adviser to the government, Paul Lyngdoh, spoke about the importance of reconnecting young performers to their cultural roots at a time when artificial intelligence is reshaping how societies learn and interact. He said the evening’s performances reflected inherited wisdom and showcased the depth and resilience of tribal culture.
The festival also featured a wide range of performances, including musical acts, folk-tale presentations and contemporary interpretations of traditional forms.
On the occasion, the Meghalaya Culture & Cuisine Awards and the Meghalaya Arts & Heritage Awards were also presented, recognising contributors from across districts—from language preservationists and folklore specialists to community library promoters, craftsmen and emerging performers.
Significant releases included a preview of the film Crafting Technique of the Saitar under the Chief Minister’s Research Grant, several research articles on the CMRG portal, the Rasong National Tribal Festival Report and publications by local writers translated into regional languages.
