Shillong, Oct 29: The Na Thymmei Festival, an annual cultural celebration organised by Seng Khasi Kmie, concluded at the historic Madan Weiking in Jaiaw.
Held over two days, the festival which means “From the Root” or “From the Origin”, brought to life a captivating array of cultural experiences, including traditional dances, musical performances, local theater, and film screenings focused on Khasi heritage.
This year, the Na Thymmei Festival invited Cyril V. Darlong Diengdoh, Secretary to the government and Swapnil Tembe, Director of School Education and Literacy as their guests.
Day 2 of the programme concluded with captivating highlights, including a traditional kids’ fashion show and the traditional pageant contest “Ka Lukhimai and u Nai Khatsawsynia.”
The winners of the contest under the category of U Nai Khatsawsynia (Male) were Samuel Shylla (winner), Pyndapborlang Sawkmie (1st Runner-up) and Dawankhraw Kharsyntiew (2nd Runner-up)
Meanwhile, under the Ka Lukhimai (Female) category, Phibahunshisha Ryngkhun was announced the winner while Batriti Myrthong and Darityngkai Khonghat were the 1st Runner-up and 2nd Runner-up respectively.
Nai Khatsaw Synia Subtitles went to Ialamjingshai Mylliem for Best Smile, Easy Bor Sawkmie for Best personality, Baniaineh Dkhar for Best Speaker, Ridabiang Sungoh for Best Ramp Walk and Erickson Kurbah for Best Attire.
Meanwhile, the Lukhimai Subtitles winners were Poikimon Suiam for Best Smile, Sanki Akor Tangsong for Best Personality, Balarisha Marbaniang for Best Speaker, Iadarisha Kharkongor for Best Ramp Walk and Sakani Kyndiah for Best Attire.
Visitors also participated in workshops led by elders from the Khasi community, and savour the unique flavours of fresh indigenous cuisine.
Launched in November 2022, with the support of the Department of Tourism, Na Thymmei aims to honor and preserve the indigenous heritage of the region, while promoting cultural pride and awareness and has earned widespread recognition for its vibrant showcase of the state’s rich traditions.
The festival also plays a crucial role in fostering a deeper connection between the youth and their cultural roots, inspiring pride in their heritage and strengthening community identity. It offers visitors an immersive opportunity to experience the indigenous way of life, with increasing numbers of tourists drawn to explore the region’s traditions and engage with its people.
Beyond cultural immersion, the festival provides a platform for local artists and traditional performers to share their skills, hone their crafts, and benefit economically. The event’s vernacular-inspired stage designs and installations reflect the core values of cultural preservation, ensuring these traditions remain vibrant for generations to come.
Na Thymmei not only celebrates the past but also aims to shape a sustainable future for the indigenous heritage of Meghalaya, reinforcing the importance of cultural continuity and artistic expression.
