“Wangala unites all Garos — it’s more than a festival, it’s our identity,” says Timothy D. Shira
Tura, Nov 8: The 49th Hundred Drums Wangala Festival 2025 concluded today with grandeur and cultural vibrancy at the Garo Heritage Village and Wangala A•dam in Chibragre, West Garo Hills. Thousands gathered to celebrate the rhythmic heartbeat of Garo culture through music, dance, and tradition — marking another milestone in Meghalaya’s cultural calendar.
The closing ceremony was graced by Timothy D. Shira, Minister of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare, Fisheries, and Tourism, Government of Meghalaya, as the Chief Guest. The Guests of Honour included Brening A. Sangma, Minister of Border Areas Development, Home (Civil Defence & Home Guards), and Excise, and Sanbor Shullai, Minister of Animal Husbandry & Veterinary, Arts & Culture, Legal Metrology, and Printing & Stationery. V. S. Kumaran, Assistant Director, Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, also attended the event alongside other dignitaries and officials.
Later, Dr Mukul Sangma, Leader of Opposition, and Mahendraganj MLA Sanjay Sangma joined the celebrations, adding to the day’s significance.
The programme opened with the presentation of mementoes to the guests, followed by the rendition of Dimdim Dimchong Dachichong, the Wangala theme song. In his welcome address, HDWFC Chairman Ronald Rikman Sangma expressed gratitude to all supporters and highlighted the festival’s vital role in promoting tourism, unity, and cultural awareness among the youth.
In his address, Chief Guest Timothy D. Shira reflected on Meghalaya’s journey of cultural revival and the deep roots of Garo tradition. “In the early days when Meghalaya was still part of Assam, there were no dedicated initiatives to preserve our rich cultural identity,” he recalled. “It was only after Meghalaya attained statehood that our leaders, led by Captain Williamson A. Sangma, envisioned the Hundred Drums Wangala Festival in 1976 to safeguard our traditions.”
He expressed heartfelt gratitude to Captain Williamson A. Sangma and Sendfort K. Marak, the then Minister of Arts and Culture, for institutionalising the festival, which now stands as one of the most significant cultural celebrations in the region.
Shira reflected on how Wangala has evolved from a purely traditional harvest festival into a larger symbol of collective cultural expression — celebrated across the Garo Hills and beyond. “Today, Wangala transcends religion and region. It has become a celebration of identity that unites all Garos,” he said.
Sharing anecdotes from his political career, he recounted how organising a Wangala festival in Resubelpara in 2005 deepened his appreciation for the cultural precision of the dance and drum rhythms. “Someone once complained that the winning team’s drumbeats were off rhythm — that was when I decided to learn the dance properly myself,” he said with a smile.
He also recalled instances where he encouraged performers in Byrnihat and Dalu to maintain the authentic steps and rhythm of Wangala, emphasising that the festival’s value lies not just in its celebration but in preserving its authenticity for future generations.
Expressing pride in the growing national and international recognition of Wangala, he said, “I am happy to see our traditions being showcased before audiences from across the country and abroad. We must continue to promote and refine this festival, making it bigger and better every year.”
Highlighting tourism opportunities, he suggested that regular evening cultural shows be hosted at the Garo Heritage Village in Asanang so that visitors can experience the spirit of Wangala year-round.
The day’s events featured the Chachat So∙a Ceremony, a ritual thanksgiving to the Sun-God Misi Saljong, followed by a spirited dance competition among ten contingents. The crowd erupted in applause during the grand Rhythm of Hundred Drums Wangala performance, the festival’s signature finale.
In the Wangala competition, Chidaogre contingent emerged as the winner, followed by Gondenggre (1st Runner-up) and Sadolbra (2nd Runner-up). The festival concluded with a vibrant music concert featuring acclaimed artists from across India alongside prominent local performers.
As the drums fell silent, the 49th Hundred Drums Wangala Festival stood as a powerful reminder of the Garo people’s unity, resilience, and living heritage — inspiring anticipation for next year’s Golden Jubilee celebration.
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