The Me·Gong Festival 2024, themed “Echoes of Tradition”, celebrated the rich heritage and customs of the Garo people. Designed to promote local talent, culture, and tourism, the event serves as a significant cultural showcase, drawing both domestic and international visitors to the region.
The two-day event was inaugurated by Meghalaya Tourism Minister Paul Lyngdoh at Baljek Airport, Jengjal, West Garo Hills. Addressing the audience, Lyngdoh emphasised the government’s commitment to nurturing local talent, stating, “We are dedicated to optimising and enhancing the skills of our musicians and providing them opportunities to showcase their abilities to the fullest.”
Day 1 of the Me·Gong Festival 2024 included traditional games such as Sak-Sok (arm wrestling), Wapong Sika, and a Garo rendition of Tug-of-War added a unique flavour to the festivities, with winners receiving special tokens from the Tourism Department.
The event also featured mesmerising performances by Garo folk musicians and dance troupes, highlighting traditional songs like Wangala and Doroa. Local artisans demonstrated their expertise in weaving intricate Garo attire, including Dakmanda and Ganna, providing visitors with a glimpse into the community’s craftsmanship.
National and international talents like Haystack Ladies, Da Suraka, Gajendra Verma, Euphoria, and DJ Uditaa Goswami were also part of the event. Meanwhile, the Meghalaya Grassroot Music Project (MGMP) stage spotlighted local talents, including Rush & Trust, Aransa, Murder in Space, The Do.Pos, and Collective Murder in Space.
On Day 2, a culinary display featuring authentic Garo dishes like Panta Bhaat, Nakham Bitchi, and Wak Pura drew a large crowd.
Local talents including Sans the Clothes, Wangkimit, Strange Origins, and Ahaia performed on the MGMP stage. Evening performances by headline acts such as Restless Desire, Shanka Tribe, Indus Creed, and Europe drew crowds in lakhs, energising the festival with unforgettable moments.
Dignitaries in Attendance
The festival was graced by distinguished guests, including Meghalaya Speaker Thomas A Sangma, Sardor Rustambaev (Ambassador of Uzbekistan to India), H.E. Guillermo Rubio Funes (Ambassador of El Salvador to India), Jason Hall (High Commissioner for Jamaica to India), and Deputy Commissioner Jagdish Chelani.
The Me·Gong Festival 2024 continues to be a vibrant platform for cultural exchange, fostering tourism, empowering local artisans and musicians, and highlighting Meghalaya’s rich heritage on a global stage.
