Boko, Jan 2: As the world ringed in the new year with joyous celebration on Wednesday, the Garo community residing along the Assam – Meghalaya border added extra glitter to the occasion with the 8th edition of the Songkristan Competition, a celebration of culture, community, and tradition, on Thursday.
Umshek Village playground, the venue for the competition, in West Khasi Hills District of Meghalaya transformed into a lively hub of music, dance, and unity. Organized by the Gijang Area A-Chik Cultural Arts and Sports Association, the event drew participants and spectators from far and wide, celebrating the rich heritage of the Garo people with unmatched zeal and camaraderie.
The competition commenced with the vibrant Wangala dance performed by local youths. The occasion was graced by Remington G. Momin, MLA of Rambrai-Jyrngam Constituency, as the Chief Guest. Other notable attendees included Lurshai Kharbani, candidate for MDC Malangkona-Sildubi; A’chik Holistic Awakening Movement (AHAM) president of Aradonga Regional Unit, Spren G. Momin; General Secretary Jenggrim A. Marak; and Trellingstar Shira, President of the Federation of Khasi, Jaintia, and Garo People (FKJAGP) Aradonga unit and hundreds of Garo villagers from both Meghalaya and Assam.
In his address, MLA Remington Momin highlighted the significance of Songkristan as a cornerstone of Garo cultural identity. “Through the Songkristan cultural program, Garo people bring peace and prosperity among the community. Songkristan has united the Garo people and to serve enormously for the people. Therefore, we celebrate the Songkristan programme every year,” he said.
This year’s competition featured ten cultural groups from various villages, including Maspara, Malapara, Khasi Salbari, Malsapara, Athiabari, Ranikhat, Dogaon-Malang, Umshek, Madankillor, and Rongdhali, all under the Rambrai-Jyrngam Constituency.
The group from Ranikhat emerged as the winner, securing the first prize of Rs. 30,000. Maspara and Dogaon claimed the second and third positions, winning Rs. 20,000 and Rs. 10,000, respectively. Notably, Malapara cultural troupe was last year’s champion.
MLA Momin further emphasized the dual cultural significance of Songkristan and Wangala, stating that while Wangala represents the historical culture of the Garos, Songkristan represents the religious culture of Christian Garos. “I hope, in the future, both Assam and Meghalaya governments will help the Garo people to organize the Songkristan,” he said.
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