Shillong, Dec 9: The A•we Festival 2025 began in Resubelpara, North Garo Hills, today.
The vibrant two-day event being held at the Mini Stadium, aims to showcase the region’s athletic prowess, indigenous culture, and community spirit through sports, traditional games, and cultural exhibitions.
The opening day featured a Flower-cum-Vegetable Show by the Horticulture Department, an Industrial Exhibition by DCIC, Resubelpara, Miss A•we Beauty Pageant, A•we Dance Battle, and live performances by local artists.
The event features thrilling indigenous games, cultural programmes, and a grand rock concert featuring popular bands including Ahowee, North Wind, Nokpante, Jessie Lyngdoh, and Riprap, celebrating the vibrant and youthful spirit of the district.
Over 70 stalls have been set up, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of North Garo Hills through traditional artefacts, locally handcrafted wooden items, handloom and handicraft products, agri-horti produce, indigenous fruit wines, and a wide variety of local cuisines.
Tourism Minister Timothy D. Shira in his speech described the festival as a “window to the vibrant culture of North Garo Hills”. He emphasised that such events play a crucial role in attracting tourists and encouraging them to experience the local lifestyle and traditions. He noted that the diverse exhibition of products stands as a testament to the hard work and dedication of local producers and serves as an inspiration for the community.
During the event, the Minister announced that crores of rupees have been allocated for the beautification and development of key tourist destinations in the district, including Jolding Wari, Rongma Gitil, Na•ka Chikong, Do•bakol, Rongpetchi, the Shiva Lingam at Radi Nokat, among others.
Kharkutta MLA Rupert Momin highlighted the goal of bringing North Garo Hills at par with other districts in terms of overall development and progress, and encouraged the youth to explore opportunities in sports and business sectors as viable avenues for employment.
Mendipathar MLA Marthon J. Sangma stressed the importance of tourism as a means of revenue generation for the overall welfare of the district and highlighted the government’s continued investment and initiatives in the tourism sector.
Deputy Commissioner Dr Abhishek Saini said that the A•we Festival is not merely an event on the calendar but the heartbeat of North Garo Hills. He described it as a celebration of the district’s identity, heritage, and shared aspirations for the future.
By showcasing indigenous produce, he added, the festival sends a strong message that the local economy is deeply rooted in the land. Referring to North Garo Hills as a “hidden gem,” Dr Saini remarked that the time has come for the district to shine, leveraging its landscapes, hospitality, and rich culture. He also emphasised the importance of reviving indigenous games, noting that these are unique cultural assets that attract tourists from far and wide.
