Meghalaya’s iconic Hundred Drums Wangala Festival wrapped up its Golden Jubilee celebrations on Saturday at Wangala A dam in Chibragre, West Garo Hills district, by clinching a Guinness World Records title for the largest Wangala dance.
Over 1,000 traditional Dama players performed together in the Rhythm of Thousand Drums, alongside women dancers and warriors, followed by a special Wangala performance for the record attempt. Guinness World Records adjudicator Richard Williams Stenning from the United Kingdom announced the record at the venue. A 12-member team from Garo Hills also participated in judging the event.
Union Culture and Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat witnessed the event as the chief guest, accompanied by Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad Sangma, Deputy Chief Minister Sniawbhalang Dhar, Power Minister Timothy Dalbot Shira, and Leader of the Opposition Dr Mukul M. Sangma. In his address, the Union Minister conveyed congratulations on behalf of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the people of India on the festival completing 50 years.
Describing Wangala’s 50-year journey as a remarkable cultural achievement, Shekhawat said it represents not merely a festival but the collective commitment of generations to safeguarding and celebrating the glorious heritage of the Garo community. “Wangala embodies gratitude towards nature and Mother Earth for a bountiful harvest and reflects the deep relationship between human beings and the natural world. At a time when the world is facing climate change and environmental degradation, traditions such as Wangala carry an important message of respect, harmony and coexistence with nature,” the Union Minister said.
Thanking the Union Minister, organisers and performers, Chief Minister Sangma recalled that the festival, which began in 1976 with 20 drums and grew to 100, had now reached 1,000 drums at its Golden Jubilee, fulfilling the vision of his father and former Lok Sabha Speaker, the late Purno Agitok Sangma.
The day also featured a dance competition among 10 contingents. Chidaogre was declared the winner and received a trophy and Rs 2 lakh. Gondenggre secured the first runner-up position with a trophy and Rs 1.5 lakh, while Sadolbra finished second runner-up with a trophy and Rs 1 lakh. Consolation prizes were awarded to all participating contingents.
(Correspondent)
