Tura, Nov 12: The second day of the 44th Hundred Drums Wangala Festival was marked with the Rugala ceremony at the proposed permanent site Wangala A’dam, Chibragre near Tura adhering to the protocols of Covid-19 on Friday.

Adviser to the Chief Minister, Government of Meghalaya and MLA North Tura, Thomas A Sangma, graced the occasion as Chief Guest while Chairperson of Meghalaya State Commission for Climate Change and Sustainable Development (MSCCC & SD) and MLA Selsella Constituency, Ferlin C A Sangma, graced the occasion as the Guest of Honour.

It may be mentioned that a day ahead of the Wangala, a ritual called Rugala is performed by the Nokma (Village Chief) and in this ritual the first hand special rice-beer along with cooked rice and the vegetables are offered to the Misi Saljong, the Great Giver. The Rugala ceremony concluded for the day’s activities with the Rhythm of 100 drums.While addressing the gathering as Chief Guest, Thomas A Sangma recalled the valuable contributions of the pioneers of the then Wangala Festival Committee to promote, protect and preserve the traditions and culture of the Garos. Looking at the increasing peoples’ participation in the festival, he said that this will help to safeguard the culture and traditions as well as boost the morale of the political leaders.

Speaking on the occasion the Guest of Honour F C A Sangma expressed her gratitude for being given a chance to attend the festival and also mentioned about the pioneers of the Wangala festival and their foresightedness in preserving the unique culture of the Garos.

Further, she said that despite embracing Christianity and other religions, she urged the people to preserve and protect the culture and traditions of the Garos.

The other highlights of the festival are Indigenous Games including Tug of War, Ajea and Doroa cultural competitions amongst others. In the final Tug of War the Rongkhon team defeated the Rompa Matgrik team from Baghmara. The Rongkhon team has been the defending champion for fourth time in a row.