As part of Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas (Tribal Pride Week), Sankardev College in collaboration with the Department of Arts and Culture organised a programme on the state’s cultural dances here today.
The theme was ‘Synthesis of Rhythm and Art: Revisiting and Promoting the Cultural Heritage of Meghalaya’ and the programme endeavoured to bring to one platform all the beautiful dances, including those that are less well known, of the state.
It aimed to document the history behind the specific dance and showcase the dress and ornaments worn as well as the different musical instruments and styles while generating awareness and spreading knowledge of the rich heritage of Meghalaya.
Minister of Arts and Culture Paul Lyngdoh was the chief guest and appreciated the college for its efforts to preserve and promote the cultural heritage of the state.
Also present were senior civil servants Frederick Roy Kharkongor, FM Dopth, Padma Shri awardees Theilin Phanbuh and Silbi Passah and academics. Representatives of social and cultural organisations, prominent personalities, students of different colleges and universities were also in attendance.
Altogether a total of 22 dance troupes from various parts of the state took part in the programme.
From Khasi Hills, the dances were Ka Shad Suk Mynsiem, Ka shad Mastieh (Ha Tbian Ki Sur Hara), Ka Shad Mastieh (Hima Khyrim), Ka Shad Thma and Ka Shad Shutwait. Ka Shad Skain was from Wahkhen, Ka Shad Kiew Iing was from Nongstoin, Ka Shad Rongkhli from Nongtalang, Ka Shad Khynrum from Lynngam.
From Ri-Bhoi, the dances were Ka Shad Nguh Meikha, Ka Shad Rah Kynthei, Ka Shad Bhoi Lasa, Ka Shad Krud Kba and Ka Shad Iapngar. Besides there was the Domahi dance from the Karbi community.
The dances from the Jaintia hills were the Chad Lahooh, Chad Sukra and the Chad Kylla Pliang.
From the Garo hills the dances include Wangala, the Ruga, the Hajong and Koch dances.
These various dances are highly symbolic, with each telling a tale of thanksgiving, chivalry, bravery, happiness and/or sorrow.
