Shillong, November 13: The 39th 100 Drums Wangala Festival at Asanang, Rongram Block concluded on a high note with Chief Minister, Dr Mukul M Sangma attending the concluding day of the three days’ festival as the Chief Guest.
Addressing a large gathering, Chief Minister Dr Mukul M Sangma said that people from all different parts of the region have gathered together to preserve the age old traditions of the forefathers. While congratulating the founding and present members of the committee he said that such festivals not only preserve but also promote the culture of the people to the rest of the world, thus it is the responsibility of everyone to make such festivals bigger and grander he added.
The Chief Minister also said that Wangala depicts the way of life of our ancestors that is deeply rooted to their land, nature and environment and it the endeavor of the government to make development initiatives that will ensure sustainable livelihood for a sustainable ecology. He also informed that tourist flow in the state has increased and the government has initiated schemes to promote Tourism with complete community involvement.
“The rich, vibrant cultural heritage and the bountiful nature is our strength and I urge the leaders, community and all stakeholders to partner with the government in its various development schemes and initiatives,” he said. Saying that Asanang has become famous for 100 Drums he informed that the potential partners of the area will be given entrepreneurship training and skill development to promote Tourism in Asanang.
The Chief Minister also released colouful balloons to mark the colourful festival. This year the villages of Bolonggitik, Sasatgre, Wadagre, Buribra, Sadolbra, Dingnabra, Gondenggre, Bolbokgre, Dalanggre and Resanggre took part in the 100 drums festival with the winner of last year Gondenggre emerging as champions once again.
