Shillong: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma joined the Golden Jubilee of the 1,000 Drums Wangala Festival in Chibragre on Thursday. He called the event a powerful expression of Garo identity. The festival honors nature and agricultural roots. It began in 1975 at Tura’s Chandmary Playground with only 10 drums. The late P.A. Sangma started the event, while then-Chief Minister Captain Williamson A. Sangma proposed the 1,000-drum expansion. Pioneers Hubert Koksi Sangma and Prabir Raksham built the festival into a lasting institution.
The jubilee features 1,000 drums and 2,000 dancers. Organizers expect a world record. The ritual offering of rice and rice brew highlights human gratitude toward forests and rivers. Sarma noted that "indigenous knowledge is not confined to ancient texts, but also encompasses the wisdom, agricultural practices, and traditions developed by communities over generations." He urged Garo youth to balance modern education with pride in their heritage.
Sarma celebrated ties between Assam and Meghalaya. He welcomed Garo contingents from Goalpara and Karbi Anglong districts to the festivities. Meghalaya Minister Timothy D. Shira attended as guest of honor alongside other officials. The program included the Rugala ritual, indigenous games, and the theme song Dimdim Dimchong Dachichong.
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