Williamnagar, May 4: Loyola Fest 2026 began with great enthusiasm and cultural vibrancy at Loyola College, Williamnagar on Monday.
The two-day festival opened with a grand Traditional Day celebration, where students and staff proudly dressed in the traditional attire of various cultures from across India, reflecting the spirit of unity in diversity.
The opening ceremony was graced by local MLA and Cabinet Minister Marcuise N. Marak as the Chief Guest, while the President of the Williamnagar District Sports Association, Sengbath R. Marak, attended as the Guest of Honour. Former MLA Francis Pondit R. Sangma and leaders of the GSU were also present at the event. The distinguished guests were warmly escorted by colourful Wangala troupes, adding grandeur to the occasion.
The programme was hosted by Loyola College students Dimdimbe M. Marak and Dimrik Chuan R. Marak.
Welcoming the gathering, the Principal of the college, Dr. Fr. Stephen Athikho, delivered the welcome address and felicitated the Chief Guest and the Guest of Honour. Speaking on the occasion, he highlighted this year’s festival theme, “Echoes of the Hills, Unity in Diversity,” which celebrates the rich culture and traditions of the Northeastern states of India. He stated that the theme reminds everyone that togetherness is strength and that the festival serves as a platform for students to showcase their talents, foster unity, and grow in values.
The cultural programme began with a series of colourful traditional performances representing different communities of the Northeast. The B.Sc. Department presented a traditional Khasi dance, the Education Department performed the Wangala dance, the Sociology Department showcased the Atong dance, the Garo Department performed a Mizo dance, the English Department presented a Naga dance, the Political Science Department showcased a Jaintia dance, the History Department performed a Nepali dance, and the Economics Department presented the energetic Bihu dance. The vibrant performances captivated the audience and highlighted the region’s rich cultural heritage.
Addressing the gathering, Guest of Honour Sengbath R. Marak expressed his happiness and honour in being part of the festival. He thanked the organisers for inviting him and remarked that such events remind people that education is not limited to books and classrooms, but also includes creativity, culture, and the spirit of togetherness. Reflecting on his student days, he said that they did not have opportunities to study in such institutions and encouraged the students to make the best use of the opportunities available to them today. He added that the students represent not only the future of the community but also of society as a whole.
Chief Guest Marcuise N. Marak, while addressing the students, said that he stood before them not merely as an MLA or Minister, but as someone who was once a student with dreams and aspirations. Looking at the students dressed in their traditional attire filled him with pride, as he saw a generation that is not only educated but also deeply connected to its culture, identity, and roots. He urged the students never to lose that connection in a rapidly changing world.
He further stated that under the leadership of Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma, the government is not only focusing on development but also on preserving the identity and culture of the people. He described the recognition of Garo and Khasi as official languages after 54 years of Meghalaya’s statehood as a historic milestone that strengthens cultural identity and brings governance closer to the people.
Emphasising the role of youth in nation-building, he said that no government or leader alone can bring real change, as true transformation begins with the people themselves. He encouraged students to use education not merely as a means to earn a livelihood, but as a tool to make a positive difference in society. He urged them to become young leaders who choose honesty over shortcuts and who dare not only to dream, but also to serve society.
Following the cultural programme, the Principal escorted the guests to the Food Festival, where a wide variety of traditional dishes and local delicacies were displayed and offered for sale.
