Shillong, Mar 22: The A∙chik Literature Society (ALS) has launched an initiative to preserve Garo cultural heritage by training young people in traditional music, instruments and performance practices.
A five-day regional workshop, held at the NEHU (North-Eastern Hill University) Tura campus, brought together over 100 students and research scholars to learn indigenous knowledge directly from experienced practitioners.
The workshop focused on hands-on learning, with participants crafting traditional instruments like the chigring, dama and flute and performing age-old art forms like dotdrong music, Wangala dance and grika.
NEHU Tura Pro-Vice-Chancellor Prof Fameline K Marak urged youth to stay rooted in their traditions while pursuing academic goals, highlighting their role as custodians of cultural identity. ALS leaders stressed the economic potential of traditional arts, encouraging participants to view cultural knowledge as a pathway to sustainable livelihoods.
The workshop showcased diverse dama beating styles and performances, demonstrating the vibrancy of traditional forms. ALS president Prof Caroline R Marak emphasised that A∙chik identity is tied to its music, language, land and traditions, calling for urgent efforts to revitalise these elements.
