SHILLONG, JAN 26: Lok Bhavan, Shillong, celebrated the 77th Republic Day of India on Monday with a colourful cultural programme highlighting the rich and diverse heritage of the Northeast.
The event was held in the presence of the Governor of Meghalaya, Shri C.H. Vijayashankar, who took the National Salute as the Meghalaya Police Band rendered the National Anthem.
Organised by the Department of Arts and Culture, the programme began with the rendition of the State Anthem by Elsa Dkhar, Piano Instructor at the State Institute of Arts and Culture, followed by a patriotic medley performed by artists of the institute.
A series of traditional dances from across the Northeastern states showcased the region’s cultural diversity. Performances from Meghalaya included Ka Shad Knia Sngi, Wangala (Harvest Dance) and Ka Chad Rep. Other performances featured Satriya Dance from Assam, Cheraw (Bamboo Dance) from Mizoram, Lai Haraoba Folk Dance from Manipur, Modse Warrior Victory Dance from Nagaland, Nyishi Rikham Pada from Arunachal Pradesh, Reang Lebang Boomani Folk Dance from Tripura, and Tamang Selo (Damphu Dance) from Sikkim.
Adding to the patriotic atmosphere, the Assam Rifles Jazz Band presented a special musical performance that was well received by the audience.
During the programme, distinguished personalities were felicitated for their contributions. Dr. Delphine Gare Momin was conferred the Pa Togan Sangma Award, Smti. Kmoin Wahlang received the U Kiang Nangbah Award, while Shri Benedict Skhemlang Hynniewta was honoured with the U Tirot Sing Award.
Winners of the Flower Show were also felicitated, with Kynton Kharkongor receiving the ‘King of the Show’ title and Donald Khardewsaw being declared the ‘Queen of the Show’.
The celebrations concluded with group photographs of artists and dignitaries, followed by the National Anthem, as the Assam Rifles Jazz Band continued to perform patriotic numbers.