Shillong, Sep 14: The Tourism Department is preparing for a grand celebration of the 100th Wangala Festival, with plans to showcase traditional Garo costumes and expand the festival ground for larger crowds.
Tourism Minister Timothy D Shira said the department has sanctioned Rs 45 lakh for purchase of traditional costumes for the special celebration.
“We are thinking of upgrading it to 1,000 drum Wangala because this year it will be a special celebration,” Shira said.
He said the festival will showcase original Garo costumes worn by forefathers. Construction of Nokpanti and Nokachuk will be done as per old traditions with decoration and wood carving.
Shira said the costumes will be property of the Wangala Committee and will be handed over to the Tourism Department. Local tailors and designers have been engaged. Traditional implements including daos, spears and two-edged swords have also been ordered and are nearing completion.
With larger crowds expected, the site is being expanded and two to three parking areas are being built, including private parking facilities.
The festival will continue at its existing location. Shira said the government had earlier considered shifting it but decided against it after opposition from Wangala Committee which felt shifting would dilute originality.
On accommodation, he said a five-star hotel project is underway but will not be ready before the festival. Government will rely on hotels and homestays in Tura and nearby areas including Williamnagar, Shivalpar and Medhipatar, now accessible within one to one-and-a-half hours due to improved roads.
The department will also use social media to promote lesser-known destinations in Garo Hills. The Union Tourism Minister and other dignitaries will be invited, he said.
