STAFF CORRESPONDENT
TURA: The Meghalaya Minister for Tourism, Metbah Lyngdoh graced the Rugala Ceremony of the 100 Hundred Drums Wangala Festival held at Asanggre near Tura on Friday.
A day ahead of the Wangala, a ritual called Rugala is performed by the Nokma (Village chief) and in this ritual, the offering of the first-hand special rice-beer along with cooked rice and vegetables are given to Misi Saljong, the Great Giver.
Speaking on the occasion, Metbah Lyngdoh expressed his happiness to witness the Wangala festival and said that he had missed many times due to various reasons. While addressing the gathering he even greeted the people in the Garo language. Mentioning about the importance of preserving the culture and identity of our people, he lauded the committee members for keeping the tradition alive and have also appreciated the decision of the Wangala committee to promote a ‘Clean and Green Wangala Festival’.
Further, the Chief Guest also handed over a cheque of Rupees 20 lakhs from the Department of Tourism to the Chairman of the 100 Drums Wangala Committee.
Indigenous games and cultural competitions marked the second day of the Wangala festival. Many participants took part in the indigenous games.
Among others present on the occasion were the Advisor to Chief Minister, Thomas A Sangma, Deputy Speaker, Government of Meghalaya, Sanbor Shullai, MLA Mawsynram Constituency, Himalaya Shangpliang, MLA Umroi Constituency, George B Lyngdoh, MLA Rambrai Jyrngam Constituency, Kimfa Marbaniang, MLA, West Shillong, Mohendro Rapsang, Director, Department of Tourism, CVD Diengdoh, Deputy Commissioner (West Garo Hills) Ram Singh and Superintendent of Police, Dr MGR Kumar besides district officials.
Also Read: Meghalaya News