Shillong, Jan 28: Describing Khyndailad as a living symbol of Khasi heritage in the heart of Shillong, the Hynñiewtrep Youths’ Council has urged the state government to construct a dedicated cultural centre there to preserve the historic name and cultural legacy of the area.
In a letter to Chief Minister Conrad Sangma and Deputy Chief Minister in-charge Urban Affairs Sniawbhalang Dhar on Wednesday, Hynñiewtrep Youths’ Council (HYC) president Roy Kupar Synrem requested them to consider this demand and direct the concerned departments to undertake a feasibility study and initiate the project in consultation with local stakeholders, traditional bodies and organisations.
“Khyndailad deserves to be remembered not as a forgotten name, but as a living symbol of Khasi heritage in the heart of Shillong,” he said, adding that the proposed centre would serve multiple purposes, including preservation of cultural identity, promotion of local artistes, entrepreneurship, and sustainable tourism.
The centre is envisioned to comprise an open performance space, designated shops for traditional foods and indigenous crafts, and interpretative installations explaining the historical significance of ‘Khyndailad’, he added.
HYC believes this initiative would honour the past, create livelihoods, and instill pride among the people.
“Such a centre would enhance Shillong’s cultural tourism appeal, transforming ‘Khyndailad’ into a living cultural monument rather than a congested commercial zone,” Synrem added.
