Shillong, Oct 17: The 33rd Get Together of Harmony organised by the Central Puja Committee (CPC) was held yesterday at Rilbong Durga Puja mandapam, which is celebrating its centenary of Durga Puja this year.
Leaders of different faiths, traditional heads, representatives of Durga Puja committees and guests attended the annual harmony meet held ahead of the festival season.
The highlight of the event was reading of an all-faith prayer led by Swami Hitakamananda, Secretary of the Ramakrishna Mission.
Rilbong Durga Puja Committee President Manas Chaudhuri recalled the first meet at Rilbong in 1993, held without stage or podium with attendees seated in a circle, laying the foundation for harmony.
Deputy Chief Minister Sniawbhalang Dhar who attended the event lauded the unique initiative and said though belonging to the Niamtre faith, he has believed in religious unity since childhood.
Cabinet Minister Sanbor Shullai recounted his long association with the CPC.
CPC President Naba Bhattacharjee said while religion is an honourable sentiment, it is time to introspect on harmony of humanity above harmony of religion.
CPC’s Sarad Sanman 2025-26 was presented to Prabhat Kanti Paul, Ramshevak Singh, Lur Mangkara Bashai Rani, PD Chokhani, Salil Gewali and SL Singhania.
A special highlight was views expressed by two young students — Jason Suchiang and Shina Haokip of BK Bajoria School — who stressed involving youth in interfaith dialogue and giving them a platform.
Meanwhile, with 137 pandals across Garo Hills, including 76 in West Garo Hills and 33 in Tura, Durga Puja celebrations began at Parade Ground, Tura on Saturday.
This year’s theme is ‘Minimum Use of Plastic and Thermocol’ for eco-friendly Puja. The opening featured a handicraft and food fest, Dandiya night and cultural programme with PRIME Hub entrepreneurs.
CPC General Secretary Arup Nag said over 200 sarees will be distributed to needy women besides clothes for the poor.
“There is absolutely no problem anywhere in the town. Tura’s Durga Puja is very peaceful and unique,” Nag said.
