In a landmark step toward preserving Meghalaya’s cultural soul, the Government of Meghalaya today inaugurated extensive cultural and tourism amenities for the Nongkrem Dance at Lum Pomblang and Madan Syiem, Smit. The initiative, executed through the Tourism Department, marks a renewed commitment to safeguarding one of the Khasi community’s most sacred and enduring traditions.
The Nongkrem Dance, recently highlighted by The Borderlens for its deep ritual significance and its role in renewing social and ancestral bonds, stands at the heart of Khasi cultural identity. Rooted in thanksgiving rituals, agricultural cycles, and clan unity under the custodianship of Hima Khyrim, the dance is more than a celebration — it is a living symbol of Khasi spiritual and cultural continuity. Its sacred ceremonies, the presence of the Syiem, and the participation of young maidens and men in traditional attire form a heritage that has endured through centuries of political, social, and generational transitions.
Reflecting on the moment that spurred this initiative, Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma recalled his first visit to the site over three and a half years ago, when he witnessed the depth of the rituals and felt the urgent need for cultural preservation. “I felt strongly that this needed to change,” he said. “We would do whatever it takes to give due respect to our traditions and culture — to protect, preserve, and promote them.”
The inauguration programme was attended by Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma, Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong, the Syiem and Dorbar of Hima Khyrim, and key community representatives including Longsan Mansan, Sordars, and Rangbah Shnongs. Their presence signified a rare moment of alignment between traditional authorities and the State leadership, united by a shared goal: to ensure that cultural spaces evolve with dignity, safety, and continued relevance.
During his address, the Chief Minister expressed satisfaction at the successful execution of the project. He noted that the development extended beyond the primary dance grounds, with enhancements also made to surrounding spaces such as Madan Syiem and other adjoining areas. He observed that, despite more than five decades of statehood, the cultural identity of the tribal community had not always received the attention it deserved — a gap the present initiative seeks to fill.
He emphasised that the government’s decisions continue to be guided by the principles of need, equity, and fairness, drawing from over seven and a half years of outreach across regions and communities. Addressing underlying societal divisions, he urged people to move beyond regional biases and embrace unity. “For the state to develop, we have to move forward together in unity and inclusivity, ensuring development benefits everyone,” he added. He also reminded the gathering that development must be measured by its real impact on people’s lives.
The Chief Minister reiterated the value of cultural programmes, describing them as vital to strengthening tourism, boosting the local economy, and celebrating the diversity of Meghalaya’s communities. He affirmed the government’s ongoing support to improve health services, sports infrastructure, and extracurricular activities that nurture young talent. Acknowledging long-pending delays in infrastructure projects, he assured the public that major sports developments would be completed in partnership with traditional heads. Additionally, he committed to improving connectivity through bridges, retaining walls, and other vital infrastructure in and around Smit.
Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong echoed these sentiments, stating that the initiative reflected the leadership’s commitment to inclusive growth. He also informed the gathering that plans were underway to beautify the iconic Iewduh Market — an effort aimed at enhancing convenience, safety, and the overall experience for both locals and visitors.
Former CEM of KHADC, Pyniaid Sing Syiem, described the event as a momentous occasion that would significantly improve the lives of the people. The Syiem of Hima Khyrim, Dr. B. S. Syiem, offered heartfelt thanks to the government, noting that the project was the culmination of years of effort and collaboration.
Emphasising the importance of land, culture, and identity, he said the new facilities marked a milestone in the community’s journey, creating safer and more organised cultural spaces while supporting the continued flourishing of local traditions. He expressed hope that the development would strengthen cultural preservation for generations to come and reaffirmed the commitment of Hima Khyrim to uphold the legacy entrusted by their ancestors.
The Sordar of Smit, P. Nongbri, highlighted the community’s ongoing needs, including a football stadium, the upgradation of the Smit Primary Health Centre, and improvements to Smit College to ensure better access to higher education for rural youth. He also underscored the strategic relevance of Smit as the headquarters of Hima Khyrim and as a central hub supporting more than a hundred neighbouring villages.
The programme concluded with cultural performances, including musical presentations by students of Smit Higher Secondary School and Smit College, which offered a vibrant reminder of the community’s deep cultural roots. Their performances, set against the backdrop of a newly revitalised cultural landscape, reinforced the significance of today’s inauguration.
With the unveiling of these new amenities, Meghalaya has taken a decisive step toward honouring its heritage while strengthening its tourism potential. More importantly, it has reaffirmed the Nongkrem Dance as not merely an annual event but a living, evolving testament to Khasi identity, resilience, and collective pride.
