Shillong, October 23, 2025: The Mawkynrew Sohphlang Eco-Cultural Indigenous Society has officially announced that it will host the 3rd edition of the Sohphlang Festival on December 5 and 6, 2025, at Lad Kharang, Jongksha, in East Khasi Hills District.
Aiming to preserve indigenous food heritage and uplift rural farming communities, the festival will celebrate the unique Sohphlang tuber — a traditional Khasi delicacy — while promoting local farmers and their produce.
Addressing a press conference at the Shillong Press Club, Bah Carmel Lyngdoh, spokesperson of the organising society, said the event is designed to economically empower Sohphlang farmers of the Mawkynrew area and showcase the cultural and nutritional value of this indigenous crop.
“This is not just a food festival — it is a farmers’ festival. Our main focus is to honour the hands that grow Sohphlang,” said Bah Lyngdoh.
He added that the previous two editions witnessed strong public participation, including visitors from outside Meghalaya, who appreciated the freshness and natural health benefits of Sohphlang.
Society President, Bah Pynbianglang Kshiar, assured that there will be no shortage of Sohphlang during the two-day celebration.
“People need not worry. We have made special arrangements to ensure sufficient supply for sale and tasting during the festival. Although the harvesting cycle was slightly delayed this year, we have secured enough from local farmers,” he said.
He clarified that the event will not include glamour-based entertainment such as fashion shows or talent competitions, emphasising that it will remain a community-centred and culturally inclusive festival, open to participants from all regions and backgrounds.
Adding a unique cultural highlight, Samla Pynsngewtynnad Rynjah announced a ‘Miss Sohphlang’ traditional-themed competition, where participants must dress in authentic Sohphlang farmer attire.
“This will be the first of its kind — where indigenous agricultural identity is honoured through authentic representation, not fashion glamour,” she explained.
The organisers expressed optimism that the festival will grow into a major agri-cultural tourism event for Meghalaya, helping generate rural livelihoods, revive indigenous farming traditions, and instil pride among the youth.
The two-day programme will feature:
Exhibition and direct sale of fresh Sohphlang by local farmers
Live traditional food tasting
Interactive sessions on sustainable indigenous agriculture
Cultural storytelling on the history of Sohphlang
‘Miss Sohphlang’ traditional attire showcase
Open platform for farmers and youth participation
The Society has appealed to the public, tourists, farmers, students, and cultural enthusiasts to support the festival as a meaningful initiative of rural empowerment rooted in indigenous identity.
