Shillong, May 15: Marking a significant step towards preserving and promoting Khasi heritage, Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma, on Thursday, laid the foundation stone for the Indigenous Cultural Centre of Seng Khasi Kmie in Mawkhar, Shillong.
The foundation programme for the ₹15 crore project was attended by Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong, Art and Culture Minister Paul Lyngdoh, community elders, and Seng Khasi members. The centre will serve as a “living gateway” to Khasi culture, where rituals, beliefs, and practices are actively practiced and passed down.
“This is not just a building but the foundation of a cultural movement,” Sangma said, emphasizing its role in safeguarding the community’s identity for future generations.
He noted that for over a century, many Khasi rituals have been performed in open spaces without proper infrastructure, a gap the centre aims to address.
Sangma highlighted the importance of preserving indigenous practices, stating, “Our customs, rituals, language, and beliefs are living expressions of our identity.”
He also underscored the government’s efforts through initiatives like the Chief Minister Research Fellowship (CMRF) to document the region’s history and traditions, which have often been underrepresented.The centre is expected to be a space for learning and cultural exchange, enabling youth to connect with elders and scholars. “It should showcase our rich culture to the world while fostering knowledge-sharing within our community,” the chief minister said.
Reflecting on India’s diversity, the Chief Minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting all communities in Meghalaya to preserve their heritage. “Since 2018, we have made it a mission to celebrate the cultural wealth of our people—our music, dance, language, and philosophies,” he added.
The project, conceptualized and driven by the Seng Khasi community, reflects the government’s inclusive approach. “From planning to execution, we are working hand-in-hand with the community to ensure every citizen is part of this vision,” said the chief minister, optimistic the Indigenous Cultural Centre will be a beacon of Khasi pride, fostering harmony and showcasing Meghalaya’s vibrant cultural tapestry to the world.
