Shillong, Sept 30: Governor CH Vijayashankar on Wednesday emphasised the need for sustainable opportunities and infrastructure to promote visual art in Meghalaya.
Attending the Riti Academy of Visual Arts Award Ceremony 2026 marking its 35th Coral Jubilee in Shillong, Vijayashankar said institutions like Riti Academy are crucial for giving local talent a platform and nurturing creativity.
He said the Riti Awards have grown beyond the state, with this year’s awardees including one from Mizoram, showing wider regional recognition.
Five memorial awards were conferred at the ceremony for contributions to Meghalaya’s cultural heritage.
Crystal Gayle Kharnaior Memorial Award for Performing Arts – Royalborn Suting ‘Khmih’, Prithpal Singh Sehdave ‘Ladi’ Memorial Award for Visual Arts – Lalhmingmawii ‘Amoi’, Sumar Sing Sawian Memorial Award for Culture – Janai Nongkynrih, S Quotient Sumer Memorial Award for Media – Aaron Lyngdoh and Rana Kharkongor Memorial Award for Music – Shibor Mawkon
Principal Secretary Arts and Culture FR Kharkongor congratulated Riti Academy and Technical Director Raphael Warjri for consistently identifying hidden talent and giving artists confidence to grow.
Additional Chief Secretary to Governor H C Chaudhary, Arts and Culture Director C D Lyngwa, former diplomat R V Warjri and Padma Shri Silbi Passah were present.
