SHILLONG |  Preparations are in full swing at the Chibragre Wangala venue in Meghalaya for the 50th Golden Jubilee celebration of the Wangala Festival, with organisers working round the clock to complete arrangements.

A major highlight of this year’s celebrations will be a special 1,000-drum performance, marking a significant expansion of the traditional Wangala drum presentation, which is commonly associated with 100 drums.

The festival will showcase the traditional music, dance and cultural heritage of the Garo community.

Wangala is the traditional harvest festival of the Garo community and is observed as a thanksgiving for a successful harvest. The festival also plays an important role in preserving and showcasing Garo customs, music, dance and other cultural traditions.

Wangala Committee chairman Ronald Rikman said the organising team was working continuously to complete preparations despite limited time.

“There are many challenges before us, but the time is very limited. Every member of the committee is working with dedication and responsibility because this is not just another festival-it is the 50th Golden Jubilee of Wangala,” Rikman said.

The organisers expect visitors from different parts of India as well as abroad to attend the Golden Jubilee celebrations.

Arrangements are being made to give visitors an opportunity to experience traditional Garo performances, including music and dance, while also learning about the community’s cultural heritage.

“This is a historic occasion for all of us. We are working together with one goal-to make the 50th Golden Jubilee Wangala Festival a memorable celebration,” Rikman said.

With preparations progressing at the Chibragre venue, the Golden Jubilee edition of Wangala is expected to bring together traditional performances and cultural activities centred on the heritage and identity of the Garo community.