Tribes come together in Rhythm of the Hills

FROM OUR STAFF CORRESPONDENT

SHILLONG, Jan 30: Various tribes of Meghalaya blended their cultures, dances and music as they came together for the grand file of the three day cultural extravaganza – Rhythm of the Hills – at Betasing block headquarters in South West Garo Hills on Saturday.

The Khasi, Biate, Kuki, Boro, Rabha and Ruga dancers from various parts of the State joined the Garos, Koches and Hajongs of South West Garo Hills dancing in unison to the catchy theme song “Krimkro” enthralling the audience that assembled at the venue on the concluding day of the festival.

Chief Minister Mukul Sangma, Minister for Arts & Culture Clement Marak, Minister for Sports & Youth Affairs Zenith Sangma, Parliamentary Secretary Ashahel D. Shira, Director of Arts & Culture M. War-Nongbri and other dignitaries, including the MDCs and district officials all stood up and cheered as the tribes came together for the fil dance.

Earlier, the Chief Minister in his brief address urged upon all the participants to raise the standard of their performance if they are to take the festival to a higher level. “Every performer should excel in their respective roles, amplify their efforts and build up on their professiolism, so that we can create stories about our tribes and spark interest among the people across the globe”, he said.

He also said that this kind of programmes would help to bring out the hidden talents out of the young boys and girls and help them to excel in particular art other than the conventiol studies.

“Such are the things worth showing off and such are the stories that we should take pride in”, he said.

Other highlights of the day are the traditiol attire and designer show on the evolution of the Garo Dakmanda and a rock concert with performance from bands like Riprap and Titans.

Earlier on the second day of the festival, events like cooking competition cum food festival, traditiol games & sports, traditiol instruments and fancy dress competitions were held besides the Wangala competition. Peace concert with performances from various choirs and bands were also held in the evening.