SHILLONG, Oct 30: The Shillong Cherry Blossom Festival will bring global music industry professionals to Meghalaya through an International Music Summit on November 19, ahead of the main festival featuring American artistes Nelly and Khalid on November 20 and 21.
Organised in collaboration with India International Music Week, the summit will connect festival promoters, record labels, booking agents and other international music professionals with Meghalaya’s emerging talent. Its programme will feature panel discussions, workshops and interactions with artistes associated with the Meghalaya Grassroots Music Project (MGMP).
Musicians and performers from across the state will be able to participate, giving local talent an opportunity to establish connections with professionals in the global music industry.
This year’s festival, themed ‘Year of Generations’, will also introduce Cherry Blossom FIT CHECK, a fashion and self-expression competition offering a total cash prize of Rs 20 lakh. Participants can enter online or compete at the festival venue, with the winners set to be announced on the main stage.
The entertainment line-up will extend beyond music, with organisers planning a Red Bull Fan Zone, mixed martial arts (MMA), arm-wrestling, cosplay and other lifestyle activities.
Festival producer Rockski EMG credited the Meghalaya government with supporting the event’s growth as a platform for music and tourism. The festival received the Music Festival of the Year award at EEMAX Global in 2025.
According to the organisers, the event has also generated opportunities for local performers, hospitality operators and entrepreneurs while attracting visitors to the state.
The main festival will take place in Shillong on November 20 and 21, with the International Music Summit scheduled for the preceding day.
