Ampati, Feb 13: The first ever two-day Mi-kari Festival 2026 organised by the South West Garo Hills district administration was inaugurated with great enthusiasm and vibrant community participation, reflecting the spirit of unity and collaboration at Ampati student’s field on February 14, 2026. The South West Garo Hills district administration has organized this festival extravaganza to promote indigenous culture, traditional games, local talent, and community participation while providing a platform for artists, entrepreneurs, and various stakeholders. The festival features a wide range of engaging events, including a flower show showcasing the creativity and dedication of local growers, indigenous games celebrating traditional heritage, and a Healthy Baby Show promoting child health and wellbeing. The Master Chef Ampati competition highlights local cuisine and culinary skills, while cultural performances by groups such as Tura Dance Academy provide a platform for young talent. Evening musical concerts by local and regional bands are adding vibrancy, joy, and togetherness to the celebrations.
The Mi-kari Festival aims to nurture local talent, promote cultural pride, and encourage healthy competition. It also seeks to create opportunities for youth and entrepreneurs while strengthening community ties. Envisioned as a symbol of unity and positivity, the festival provides a platform for families to come together, celebrate traditions, and inspire the younger generation to dream bigger.
The festival extravaganza was inaugurated by distinguished guests Subir Marak, MLA, 52–Rangsakona, Sanjay A. Sangma, MLA, 54–Mahendraganj and Ian Botham K. Sangma, MLA, 55–Salmanpara.
Ian Botham K. Sangma, MLA, Salmanpara, in his address thanked the Chief Minister, Conrad K. Sangma, for his continued support in making the festival a reality. He stated that Mi-Kari provides an important platform to showcase the diverse cultural heritage of the district. Urging the people to utilize the platform effectively, he encouraged citizens to harness the abundant natural resources of the region and work towards achieving self-sufficiency and sustainable growth.
Expressing his happiness at being part of the occasion, Subir M. Marak, MLA, Rangsakona, said that the festival was envisioned as a platform for youth to display their talents and foster camaraderie through active participation. He also thanked the Chief Minister for his support in enabling the festival and highlighted various developmental schemes being undertaken by the Government in the region for the welfare of the people.
Addressing the gathering, Sanjay A. Sangma, MLA, Mahendraganj, lauded the efforts of the district administration for organizing the first-ever Mi-Kari Festival in the district. He noted that the district had not witnessed such a festival in the past four years. He further stated that he, along with Subir M. Marak, MLA, Rangsakona, and Ian Botham K. Sangma, MLA, Salmanpara, were collectively instrumental in conceptualizing the festival with the support of the Chief Minister.
Assuring the gathering that more such events would be organized in the future, Sanjay A. Sangma reflected on the district’s humble beginnings, where agriculture was the primary livelihood of the people. He stated that through the sustained efforts of the Government and the district administration, the district has now emerged as one of the leading producers of rice and fish in the Garo Hills region, marking significant progress in agricultural and allied sectors.
Delivering the welcome address South West Garo Hills Deputy Commissioner Anendya Raajshree, expressed heartfelt gratitude to community leaders, artists, and volunteers for their tireless efforts in organizing the festival. A warm welcome was extended to the MLAs, acknowledging their continued support and guidance. Appreciation was also conveyed to officials of various line departments for their cooperation and coordinated efforts in making the festival a success.
Highlighting the spirit of convergence, it was stated that the festival stands as a testament to effective collaboration among departments and the strong bond between the administration and the people. Initiatives such as the Mikari Festival are made possible through collective encouragement, teamwork, and shared vision for district development.
The first day of the festival saw distribution of certificates to successful candidates of various courses under the Meghalaya State Skill Development Society by the dignitaries.
The highlights of the day were display of beautiful and exotic blooms at a designated Flower Show by local enthusiasts. The dignitaries also flagged of motorcade comprising of members from the Black Falcon Riders, Tribal Nation Riders and A•kawe Riders as part of the festival.
This was followed by Indigenous Games wherein participants young and old sought to best each other in competitions like Rong•ma kolsusa•a, jakpong pe•a, anding oka and wapong sika. Later local artists and enthusiasts displayed their skills in singing and dancing at Ampati’s Got Talent.
In the evening a musical fiesta entranced Ampati with performances by local artistes/MGMP and invited bands including renowned band Restless Desire, Saldorik, Johnny Lee & the band and Farlay Cheran & the band.
The Mi-Kari Festival stands as a testament to unity, cultural pride, and the collective vision for inclusive growth and development in South West Garo Hills.
