Shillong, May 15: “Our customs, rituals, language, and beliefs—these are not relics of the past, but living expressions of our identity,” reminded Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma as he laid the foundation for the Indigenous Cultural Centre of Seng Khasi Kmie at Mawkhar in the heart of Shillong on Thursday.
The centre is being constructed at a cost of Rs. 15 crores, and is being envisioned as a living gateway to the Khasi heritage. It will be a space where traditions are not only displayed but actively practiced, passed on, and celebrated.
“This is not just a building, but the foundation of a cultural movement — a place where our identity, rituals, beliefs, and way of life are preserved for generations to come,” the chief minister told the people gathered for the occasion, that included community elders and members of the Seng Khasi.
Beyond the Indigenous Cultural Centre, he mentioned that the MDA government has been committed to safeguarding the age-old practises of the indigenous tribes right since it came to power in 2018. He said the state government has made it a mission to support, promote, preserve, and celebrate the cultural wealth of the indigenous tribes of the state —whether it is the music of their hills, the dance of their ancestors, the language of their forebears, or the rituals and philosophies that define their current worldview.
He said Indigenous Cultural Centre project was conceptualised and envisioned by the community. “From planning to execution, we are working hand-in-hand with the community. Our government believes in inclusivity—every citizen, every organisation is part of our vision. We will never segregate, but work together as one,” he stated.
He also added that for over a century, many important rituals have been performed in open spaces without proper infrastructure, but his government was correcting this. “We are correcting that with a commitment that reflects the cultural significance of our people,” he said.
Talking on the importance of promotion and conservation of indigenous practices, he said, “When we speak about preserving our culture, our way of life, and our history, we are talking about safeguarding the essence of who we are as a community.”
Stating that the tribal communities of North East are unique and different in many ways, he said, “We have not been able to document our history, our beliefs and our culture. Through the Chief Minister Research Fellowship (CMRF), the government is promoting research, so that our tradition and our history can be preserved.”
Hoping that the centre will be a space for learning and sharing of knowledge, he said, “The centre should demonstrate and showcase our rich culture to the world, as well as enable our youth to learn from the elders, scholars who can share their wisdom with the next generation.”
Stating that India is a beautiful and diverse nation, he said, “Our government has been supporting different communities to preserve their rich heritage and culture. As a government, we want to ensure that all communities in the state are able to grow, live in harmony, and showcase the diversity of our nation”.
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