Assam: 10 dance troupes, 100 drums steal the show at annual Wangala Festival in Goalpara

The Fourth Annual Wangala Festival, the signature post-harvest celebration of the Garo community, concluded with splendour at Chutipur in Goalpara district after a two-day cultural showcase held on November 14 and 15. The event was jointly organised by the Garo Cultural Dance Organization and the Garo Students’ Union, bringing together artists, community members and visitors from across Assam and Meghalaya.

Wangala, one of the most important cultural traditions of the Garo people living across Meghalaya, Nagaland and Assam, celebrates the completion of the harvest season and expresses gratitude to nature and deity Misi Saljong. The festival remains central to preserving the community’s rich artistic heritage, including traditional dance, music, cuisine, crafts and sports.

This year’s celebrations saw spirited participation, with 10 Wangala dance troupes performing to the pulsating rhythm of nearly 100 traditional drums, captivating audiences with their synchronised steps and colourful attire.

A major highlight of the event was the announcement that the Government of Assam has officially declared Wangala Festival a State Holiday beginning 2025, a move warmly welcomed by the Garo community. Organisers and attendees expressed deep appreciation to the government for recognising and honouring their cultural identity.

The festival attracted a large crowd, drawing spectators from multiple districts of Assam and adjoining Meghalaya. Notable dignitaries present included Markus N. Marak, Meghalaya’s Minister for PHE, Soil and Water Conservation and Housing; Frailin R. Marak, former Executive Member of the Rabha Hasong Autonomous Council; Thengchak G. Momin, President of the Garo Students’ Union; Foldin R. Marak, Dr. Tharcus T.K. Ch. Sangma, Kvorite P. Marak, and Sanjay R. Marak, among other leaders and cultural figures.

The festival concluded with renewed resolve among organisers and participants to continue safeguarding the Garo cultural legacy. The 2025 edition is expected to witness even grander celebrations under its newly accorded state-holiday status.