MeGong Festival Rocks in Garo Hills Meghalaya
The MeGong Festival in Garo Hills, Meghalaya, is a place where music meets tradition. With performances by Bollywood and international artists, cultural showcases, local cuisines, and more, this two-day extravaganza at Baljek Airport is a celebration of life, culture, and melody.
Well, it seems the hills are alive with the sound of music—or rather, the MeGong Festival—as the biggest musical extravaganza in the Garo Hills got underway at the Baljek Airport near Jengjal. The fourth edition of this crowd-pulling carnival didn’t just kick off; it took off like a rocket, leaving the audience roaring for more.
Tourism Minister Paul Lyngdoh, flanked by ambassadors from Uzbekistan, El Salvador, and Jamaica, declared the festival open in front of a packed audience that looked ready to dance their socks off. With this year being the first where tickets were sold, it appears the organisers have cottoned on to the idea that good things in life don’t always come for free—or at least, not anymore.
A Line-up to Set Your Toes Tapping
The festivities began with a bang—or perhaps a strum—as the all-women band Haystack Ladies from Garo Hills took to the stage. Their covers of international hits warmed up the crowd nicely, setting the tone for the night. Then came Da Suraka, a local favourite, whose lively tunes kept the energy soaring, ensuring that not a single soul even thought of heading home prematurely.
The crescendo of the night, however, was Bollywood singer Gajendra Verma, of Emptiness and Tera Ghata fame. With over ten songs, including sneak peeks from his upcoming album, Verma had the crowd grooving like there was no tomorrow. Bollywood beats and international hits alike had the audience singing, clapping, and dancing like a flash mob that refused to disperse.
Star-Studded Opening and Midnight Marvels
When the time came to officially inaugurate the festival, it wasn’t just any ribbon-cutting affair. Alongside the tourism minister stood dignitaries of international repute: Uzbekistan’s Sardor Rustambaev, El Salvador’s Guillermo Rubio Funes, and Jamaica’s Jason K M Hall. Throw in a smattering of local officers and dignitaries, and you’ve got yourself quite the VIP ensemble.
The midnight magic reached its peak with the legendary Euphoria, led by Dr Palash Sen. Their nostalgic renditions of Dhoom Pichuk Dhoom and Maeri took the audience back to simpler times when CDs were all the rage, and life was just a tad less digital. The night ended on a high with DJ Udita Goswami spinning tracks that had the crowd shouting, “One more tune!” well into the wee hours.
Echoes of Tradition and Modern Glitz
But the MeGong Festival isn’t just about music. This year’s theme, Echoes of Tradition, brings the rich culture of the Garo tribe into the spotlight. From traditional dance forms to local brews and Garo cuisine, the festival offers a smorgasbord of experiences. Fancy a bit of competitive eating? Or perhaps a stroll through the Brew Village? There’s even a Model Garo Village and a camping zone for those who want to soak in the full festival vibe.
On the crafty side, Garo handloom and handicrafts are on full display, giving visitors a chance to take home a slice of Garo culture. Light and laser shows add a modern twist to the proceedings, ensuring there’s something for everyone—whether you’re a culture vulture or a disco diva.
A Hidden Paradise No More
With Swedish rock band Europe set to headline day two, it’s safe to say the MeGong Festival is not just putting the Garo Hills on the map; it’s making it a must-visit destination. For a region often described as a hidden paradise, this festival is the equivalent of shouting from the rooftops—or perhaps the hilltops—that Meghalaya is ready to shine on the global stage.
So, whether you’re here for the music, the culture, or just the chance to munch your way through some traditional Garo delicacies, the MeGong Festival promises to be an unforgettable experience. And if you missed the opening night, don’t fret—you’ve got one more day to let your hair down and join the party. After all, as they say, “The more, the merrier!”
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