Assam's Wangala Festival: Garo Community's cultural celebration ends

The second annual Assam State-based Wangala Festival, a traditional agricultural celebration of the Garo community, concluded successfully on December 28 at the Bakhrapur Public Playground, located on the Assam-Meghalaya border. Organized by the All Assam Garo Cultural Society, the two-day event was marked by vibrant cultural displays and significant participation from the Garo community and dignitaries.  

The festival was inaugurated on December 27 by Assam Education Minister Dr. Ranoj Pegu. In his address, he lauded the efforts of the Garo community in preserving their cultural heritage.  

On the closing day, Deputy Speaker of the Assam Legislative Assembly, Dr. Nomal Momin, graced the event as the Chief Guest. Dr. Momin emphasized the importance of festivals like Wangala in fostering unity and showcasing the rich traditions of indigenous communities.  

The Wangala festival, which traditionally begins in November after the harvest season, involves rituals dedicated to the sun god. Community members performed traditional puja ceremonies, beat traditional drums, and donned traditional Garo attire, creating a vibrant and festive atmosphere.  

The celebration not only highlighted the cultural legacy of the Garo people but also reinforced the significance of agricultural festivals in maintaining communal harmony and cultural identity.