Paying rich tributes to Khasi freedom fighter, Ka Phan Nonglait, a programme combining theatre, folk dance and patriotic songs was organised today evening as part of Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav by the North East Zone Cultural Centre (NEZCC) in collaboration with the Directorate of Arts and Culture at her birth place in Nongrmai village, Eastern West Khasi Hills District.
This was the last in a series of tributes to ‘unsung heroes’. The first was in honour of Rabindranath Tagore in Shillong, followed by two performances for U Tirot Sing Syiem in Nongkhlaw.
The programme was attended by Deputy Commissioner Wilfred Nongsiej. During his address at the programme, he dwelt at length on the history and legacy of Ka Phan Nonglait in her journey as a brave freedom fighter during the Anglo-Khasi War of the 19th century and an advocate of women’s rights.
He also urged the gathering to draw inspiration from the life and times of Ka Phan Nonglait by striving to conserve one’s unique culture, identity and tradition and to stand up against exploitation of women.
The programme featured patriotic songs and colourful cultural dances presented by different artists of the district as also those from the state capital. The major highlight of the programme was the impactful play on the life and struggle of Ka Phan Nonglait performed by actor Lapdiang Syiem and her group.
Syiem of Hima Nongkhlaw, PM Syiemlieh, Myntri of Hima Nongkhlaw, Boldness L Nongum, Supreme Court advocate and author of the book “Ka Phan Nonglait – A Lady Freedom Fighter of India” Daniel Stone Lyngdoh Nonglait, other government officials, headman of Nongrmai village, S Nongrang, representatives of the Lyngdoh Nonglait clan, students and residents of the area were present at the programme.
