Shillong: The Winter Tales 2024, in its 5th edition, was launched at Ward's Lake on Jan 4 with ‘balance' as its central theme. Tourism minister Paul Lyngdoh inaugurated the event, which was organised by the Meghalayan Age Limited and curated by Dak_ti Craft.
Initiated by chief minister Conrad K Sangma in 2020, Winter Tales serves as a flagship programme celebrating Meghalaya's cultural heritage while promoting sustainable tourism initiatives.
This three-day festival demonstrates the integration of contemporary and traditional practices, with a strong emphasis on sustainability and maintaining equilibrium in daily life.
"The festival will conclude tomorrow after showcasing creative solutions that exemplify the balance between progress and preservation, encouraging a collective commitment to a more sustainable future," said a tourism department official.
"The event started off in a very humble way. Today, it attracts artisans, arteliers and weavers from all across the 12 districts of the state. This is nothing short of a miracle," tourism minister Paul remarked.
He highlighted the significance of responsible tourism, noting the surrounding greenery's importance. He also announced Meghalaya's forthcoming participation in a major Gujarat tourism festival next Feb, where the state will receive recognition for green tourism initiatives.
The minister presented Go-Green Awards to various categories, acknowledging exceptional sustainability efforts.
The event featured book launches including ‘Pahsyntiew: A Folktale' from Meghalaya by Martin Luther Christian University, ‘Ka Sohlyngem and other forgotten songs' by H Teslet Pariat, ‘Bird Folktales of Meghalaya for Children' and 'Guide to Birds of Meghalaya'.
The programme included culinary demonstrations by Adonijah Lyngdoh, Season 1 winner of ‘Hills on a Plate', alongside performances by Na U Bnai, Sur Na Nongkyndong and Da Minot.
The evening concluded with musical performances by Strait Brothers, Jamelle & the Pinefolks, Leo Boys, Jessie Lyngdoh and Wanjop Sohkhlet.