Mayabini’ echoes through stadium in powerful homage to Zubeen Garg
Shillong, Nov 16: Meghalaya’s biggest winter festival, the Shillong Cherry Blossom Music & Arts Festival 2025 ended on a high note while further securing the state’s position as one of the leaders in India’s concert economy.
Thousands of visitors thronged the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium and cultural arenas across Shillong during the two-day festival, proving that Meghalaya is setting new benchmarks for large-scale music and arts festivals in the country.
During the two days, international stardom blended with local artistry, showcasing the State’s cultural richness while driving tourism, employment, and economic growth.
Inaugurating the festival, Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma highlighted the government’s vision of making the Cherry Blossom Festival a complete cultural package.
The evening unfolded into a dazzling showcase of global talent. Bollywood sensation Nora Fatehi ignited the crowd with her electrifying performance, followed by Irish rock legends The Script, whose anthemic set culminated in a massive “Hall of Fame” singalong. The night reached its crescendo with pop superstar Jason Derulo, who delivered explosive renditions of “Swalla” and “Savage Love,” uniting the stadium with synchronized LED wristbands in a breathtaking spectacle.
Meanwhile, the Japan Arena at Ward’s Lake offered visitors a unique cultural exchange, with traditional kimono experiences and immersive Japanese artistry, underscoring Meghalaya’s commitment to blending global and local traditions.
On the second day, the momentum was carried forward with a powerful mix of emotion and energy. Shillong’s own Meba Ofilia opened the evening with her soulful brilliance, followed by the thunderous precision of Japan’s Drum Tao and a dynamic set from DJ Kennedy.
A deeply moving tribute to the late Zubeen Garg brought the stadium together in a heartfelt chorus of ‘Mayabini’, performed by Zublee Baruah, Prabin Borah, Priyanka Bharali, and Arupjyoti Baruah. The emotional homage celebrated Garg’s enduring legacy and his profound contributions to the region’s music.
The night then surged into high gear with international chart-toppers. Danish pop icons Aqua turned the venue into a euphoric dance party with nostalgic hits like “Barbie Girl,” while hip-hop superstar Tyga electrified the crowd with high-octane performances of “Swish,” “Dip,” and “Ayy Ladies.”
The grand finale belonged to Diplo, the three-time Grammy-winning DJ and producer, who transformed the stadium into a pulsating dance floor with his signature blend of electronic and world beats. Supporting acts DJ Zethan and Arius kept the energy alive between sets, ensuring the night ended on a high.
Beyond the main stage, the festival grounds buzzed with creativity and community spirit. Cosplay showcases, immersive art installations, diverse culinary offerings, and vibrant local crafts created a multi-sensory experience that celebrated Meghalaya’s cultural richness and natural charm.
The festival’s lineup is also a testament to the CM Meghalaya Grassroots Music Project (MGMP), a model providing structure, exposure, and opportunity to nurture local artists, stated an official release.
The Shillong Cherry Blossom Festival has become a flagship event, consistently attracting global icons such as Akon, Clean Bandit, Boney M, Ne-Yo, and now Diplo, Tyga, Aqua, and Jason Derulo.
