Shillong, Dec 9: The much-awaited A•we Festival 2025 was inaugurated on Wednesday at Resubelpara in North Garo Hills by Meghalaya Tourism Minister Thimothy D. Shira. The event saw the participation of elected representatives, district officials, and a large number of visitors from across the Garo Hills region.
The festival opened to an enthusiastic crowd, with over 70 stalls displaying traditional artefacts, locally handcrafted wooden items, handloom and handicraft products, agri-horti produce, indigenous fruit wines, and a variety of local cuisines.
Speaking at the inauguration, Minister Thimothy D. Shira highlighted the festival’s role in preserving and promoting the cultural heritage of North Garo Hills while providing a platform for local farmers, weavers, artisans, and youth to showcase their talents in arts, music, and entrepreneurship. He described the festival as a “window to the vibrant culture of North Garo Hills” and underlined its importance in attracting tourists and promoting the local lifestyle.
The Minister also announced significant funding for the development and beautification of key tourist destinations in the district, including Jolding Wari, Rongma Gitil, Na•ka Chikong, Do•bakol, Rongpetchi, and the Shiva Lingam at Radi Nokat. He encouraged the youth to explore entrepreneurship as a sustainable livelihood option.
Kharkutta MLA Rupert Momin appreciated the active participation of the local community and urged youth to explore opportunities in sports and business. Mendipathar MLA Marthon J. Sangma highlighted tourism as a vital source of revenue for district development and acknowledged ongoing government initiatives in the sector.
Deputy Commissioner of North Garo Hills, Dr Abhishek Saini, described the A•we Festival as “the heartbeat of North Garo Hills,” celebrating the district’s identity, heritage, and aspirations. He highlighted the Flower-cum-Vegetable Show, emphasizing the potential of agro-tourism and horticulture, and stressed the importance of reviving indigenous games to attract tourists.
The opening day featured the Flower-cum-Vegetable Show by the Horticulture Department, an Industrial Exhibition by DCIC Resubelpara, the Miss A•we Beauty Pageant, A•we Dance Battle, and live performances by local artists. The festival will continue with cultural programmes, indigenous games, and a grand rock concert featuring popular bands including Ahowee, North Wind, Nokpante, Jessie Lybgdoh, and Riprap, celebrating the vibrant spirit of the district.
The A•we Festival 2025 aims to promote culture-based tourism, support local entrepreneurship, and highlight the unique identity of North Garo Hills.
