Meghalaya: Wangala festival celebrates harvest and tradition in Garo Hills

The Wangala Festival, the most significant post-harvest celebration of the Garos, is currently underway in the hills of Meghalaya. Held annually between October and November, the festival is a grand thanksgiving ceremony dedicated to Missi Saljong, also known as Pattigipa Ra.rongipa (The Great Giver), in gratitude for the bountiful harvest of the season.

A day before the main celebration, a ritual known as Rugala is performed by the Nokma (village chief), where offerings of the first batch of rice beer, cooked rice, and vegetables are presented to Missi Saljong. This ritual signifies the community's deep respect and appreciation for the divine blessings. The following day marks the Chachat So.a ceremony, which involves the burning of incense at the central pillar of the house to officially usher in the week-long festivities.

The second day of the Wangala Festival is dedicated to honoring the warriors of the Garo tribe. This year’s festival saw an extraordinary performance by the Garo warriors, who showcased their traditional dance during the 48th Wangala Festival at Wangala A'dam Chibragre in Tura, West Garo Hills. The highlight of the event was the vibrant display of culture and tradition through the Wangala Dance, where dancers adorned in traditional attire celebrated the rich history and spirit of the Garo people.

Speaking at the festival, Shri Ronald Rikman Sangma, the Chief Chairperson of the Wangala Festival Committee, expressed his delight at the growing recognition of the festival. He said  that the Wangala Festival not only celebrates a successful harvest but also strengthens the bonds of the community, fostering unity and cultural pride among the Garos.