28th Wangala festival concludes with vibrant cultural celebrations

The 28th edition of the Wangala Festival, organized by the Karbi Anglong A’chik Cultural Society (KAACS), took place from November 5 to November 7 at the Rajendra Memorial LP School playground in West Karbi Anglong. Despite heavy rain on Wednesday evening, the festival concluded successfully. On the final day, local MLA Rupsing Teron attended as the chief guest and praised the festival for fostering unity within the community. He highlighted that the event not only united the Garo people but also attracted neighboring communities, including Karbis, Tiwas, Nepalis, and Bodos, symbolizing the region’s diversity. He described the twin districts as a “mini-India,” where various tribes, races, and religions coexist harmoniously, much like a garden of diverse flowers.

The festival, which honors the God of Giver, Misi Saljong, is a traditional observance meant to express gratitude for the bounty of rice, wheat, vegetables, and fruits provided by the deity. On the evening of the festival’s conclusion, prizes were awarded to the winners of various competitions. The cultural night was a highlight, with renowned artist Jitupan Bora from Tura, Meghalaya, captivating the audience with his performance, alongside local artists. The event was presided over by KAACS President Sajendra Sangma and attended by notable figures including Prakash Sangma, Chairman of the Minority Development Board, KAGU President Martin Marak, and former KAACS President Niharson Sangma.

By Sayan