Shillong, Oct 4: There couldn’t have been a better way to kick-off the highly anticipated Season 2 of Meghalaya Grassroots Music Project (MGMP), as Shillong city was dressed in its best attire of a soaking rainy evening and covered in the blanket of a light chill of early winter.
As dreamy and befitting the evening transformed into at Khyndailad, Police Bazar, the commercial hub and heart of Shillong, the launch of the season was equally exciting as it also marks the beginning of a long winter filled with exciting line up of festivals across the state.
Witnessed few wonderful performances from ‘Ka Sur Na Nongkyndong’, Arlene Iawphniaw from the band ‘Na u Bnai’ and the band ‘Colors’ this evening.
Congratulations to the officials of @meghtourism and the Meghalaya Grassroots Music Project team for a successful first season and I… pic.twitter.com/EUwjUdYS15
— Conrad K Sangma (@SangmaConrad) October 4, 2023
As Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma officially launched the season 2 of the melodious event on Wednesday which promises a treat to an unforgettable musical extravaganza featuring incredibly talented artists that left everyone spellbound, he remarked that the event was a celebration of the soul of Meghalaya through music.
“Our state is a treasure trove of talent, and the Meghalaya Grassroots Music Project Season 2 is our way of showcasing our vibrant culture and nurturing our local musicians,” he said as he revealed that this season this project is bigger and the performances will not be confined to music but also folklore, drama, acts, stand-up comedy, and others.
The Meghalaya Grassroots Music Project has been organised in collaboration with the Tourism Department and The Meghalayan Age.
Congratulating all the officials for successfully conducting the first session of MGMP, CM Sangma highlighted that Meghalaya’s unique contribution in supporting independent music and musicians and having programmes like MGMP is the first of its kind in the country.
“Through this Meghalaya Grassroot Music Project, in the first season itself, over 1600 artists have performed more than 3000 occasions. Of all the revenue that is generated through Tourism activities in the state, we were able to share some part of it to the artists leading to promotion of music industry and thereby, benefiting our local people,” he further said.
Along with the Chief Minister, who was present as the Chief Guest, Paul Lyngdoh, Minister of Tourism, was also present as the Guest of Honour in the programme. Speaking to the excited crowd, the Tourism Minister said, “I am delighted to address the gathering of young, talented artists here today. The inaugural year of the Meghalaya Grassroots Music Project was a resounding success, and as we embark on its second season, we are confident that this initiative will push Meghalaya towards remarkable achievements. Our capital, Shillong, is poised to become the nation’s music capital and will soon echo with the vibrant tunes of our local talent. This project has undeniably served as an invaluable platform for budding artists in Meghalaya.”
“In the upcoming season, our commitment extends to reaching every corner of the state, including every district headquarters, ensuring that our music resonates throughout the hills. Shillong, too, is on the cusp of blossoming into a vibrant hub for musicians, street performers, and bands. With these developments, the music scene in Meghalaya is poised to thrive and lead our state to become the top destination for tourism in India,” he added.
The atmosphere at Khyndailad was musical, with music enthusiasts of all ages swaying to the rhythm of three incredible bands – Sur Ki Nongkyndong, Colours, and Na u Bnai. Their soul-stirring melodies resonated in the hearts of the audience, leaving them crave for more.
The resounding success of the Meghalaya Grassroots Music Project Season-I paved the way for this grand sequel, with the government’s unwavering commitment to fostering and promoting local musicians, songwriters, composers, event firms, technical vendors, and more.
It’s not just about music; it’s about creating jobs and providing vital financial assistance to those who make our musical dreams come true. This project, officially launched by Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma on April 26, 2022, not only offers incredible musical acts but also showcases Meghalaya’s rich cultural heritage. It’s a harmonious fusion of music and tourism, inviting both tourists and locals to explore the vibrant tapestry of the state.
MGMP Season 2 promises to be an unforgettable journey into the heart of Meghalaya’s music and culture. The ever-enthusiastic people of the state are ready to be enthralled, and inspired as Meghalaya embarks on this musical odyssey like never before.
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