The fifth edition of the Me’gong Festival began with an electrifying opening in the Garo Hills, drawing thousands of visitors from across Meghalaya and neighbouring states. Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma inaugurated the cultural extravaganza, which once again highlighted the state’s expanding influence in India’s creative and cultural economy.
The opening night on the Aski Stage delivered a seamless blend of global and local talent. International pop-rock icon Richard Marx set the festival in motion with songs from his upcoming album Afterhours, along with classic hits that delighted the audience. Performing at Me’gong for the first time, he expressed his enthusiasm for the festival’s unique cultural spirit. Bollywood singer Neeti Mohan followed with an energetic set featuring popular tracks such as Ishq Wala Love, Jiya Re, and London Thumakda. She also paid homage to Assamese legend Zubeen Garg with a rendition of Mayabini, honouring the region’s deep musical legacy.
The momentum continued with high-powered performances as EDM star Nucleya delivered an intense electronic showcase, while Julian Marley infused the event with global reggae rhythms, turning the festival grounds into a lively celebration of music and unity.
Local artistes were equally celebrated. Meghalaya’s homegrown bands—Haystack Ladies, Strum Stories, Ahaia, and finalists from the Chief Minister’s Meghalaya Grassroots Music Project (CM-MGMP), including Nictophilia, Magneficient Obsession, Necroscope, Emberfall, Imphaled, Misagathia, and Rise&Shine—brought diverse sounds and youthful energy to the stage. Young MGMP performer Jakrima R. Marak from Tura said the initiative is helping emerging musicians gain exposure and build confidence by sharing the stage with internationally acclaimed artists.
Food enthusiasts found plenty to savour at the Great Garo Hills Cook Off, which showcased both traditional and contemporary culinary creations. MasterChef India Season 8 runner-up Jessica Nambie Marak, attending as a special guest, praised the imaginative reinterpretations of indigenous dishes and lauded the festival for promoting the region’s gastronomic heritage.
Beyond the star-studded music lineup and culinary showcases, Me’gong 2025 offered a rich cultural experience. Visitors engaged in traditional Garo sports such as Anding Oka, explored the bustling Brew Village, visited artisan-led stalls, and enjoyed modern attractions including a VR Zone. Exhibits under the PRIME Meghalaya initiative featured local crafts, foods, and beverages, reinforcing the festival’s commitment to encouraging creative entrepreneurship.
With upcoming performances by Blue, Yellow Claw, Kanika Kapoor, and Prateek Kuhad on the Aski Stage, along with cosplay events and cultural showcases on the Kingfisher Stage, the festival is poised to continue its vibrant momentum. The spectacular opening day has set a high standard, blending heritage, innovation, and global talent in a way that strengthens Meghalaya’s position as one of India’s most distinctive cultural destinations.
