1000 Drums Wangala Festivities begin with traditional grandeur

TURA, Nov 11: The much-awaited 1000 Drums Wangala Festival 2026 commenced its first day of celebration on Wednesday, with the day highlighted by the presence of the Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma and his wife, Mehtab Chandee A Sangma, at Wangala A’dam, Chibagre in West Garo Hills.
The festival brings together cultural traditions, indigenous performances and distinguished guests to celebrate the rich heritage and identity of the A’chik community.
The arrival of the chief minister, who was also the chief guest, along with a host of other dignitaries, marked the beginning of the main festival celebrations.
The programme featured the traditional Chandal Goa, followed by the release of the souvenir magazine titled ‘CHIRONGDIK’.
An opening prayer was offered by Dr Imnanungshi Imsong, Principal of HTC, seeking blessings for the successful celebration of the festival.
A special moment of the inaugural programme was the presentation of mementoes to the Chief Guest and other dignitaries, accompanied by the festival’s theme song, ‘Dimdim Dimchong Dachichong’, performed by family members of the late Lt. Millickson K. Marak, the composer.
The welcome address was delivered by Ronald Rikman Sangma, Chairman of HDWFC and GHV, who welcomed the dignitaries and participants to the annual cultural celebration.
The programme also included the felicitation of pioneers and former leaders of HDWFC in recognition of their contributions. Adding to the cultural diversity, an exhibition dance was presented by the Karbi Anglong Wangala troupe, showcasing traditional dance and cultural expressions.
Following the inaugural proceedings, the chief guest and other dignitaries addressed the gathering, highlighting the importance of preserving indigenous traditions, cultural identity and heritage for future generations.
One of the major attractions was the Rhythm of One Thousand Drums, an introductory round celebrating the traditional musical heritage of the A’chik people. The performance brought the distinctive rhythm of traditional drums to the centre stage, reflecting the cultural spirit and collective identity of the community.
The day’s programme also featured a Slow Food Competition, followed by the inauguration of the Handloom and Handicrafts Exhibition, providing a platform to showcase indigenous food traditions, craftsmanship and traditional products.
After the lunch break, preparations and rehearsals for the Thousand Drums performance continued, followed by Mese Cha’a and the concluding vote of thanks.
The first day of the festival reflected the importance of Wangala not merely as a cultural celebration but also as a platform for safeguarding indigenous traditions, promoting traditional knowledge and bringing communities together.
The celebrations will continue on November 12 and 13 and culminate on Saturday, with more traditional performances, competitions, indigenous games, cultural presentations and the grand celebration of the 1000 Drums Wangala Festival 2026.
The second day is expected to be lit up through the presence of Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma.