Shillong, August 15, 2026: Meghalaya Governor C.H. Vijayashankar hosted the traditional ‘At Home’ reception at Lok Bhavan, Shillong, on Friday to mark the 80th Independence Day of India, bringing together dignitaries, government officials, security personnel, artists, cultural representatives and citizens in a celebration of patriotism and cultural diversity.
Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma attended the programme along with senior government officials, defence and police personnel, distinguished guests and other invitees.
The programme began with the Governor inaugurating stalls and displays set up by farmers, entrepreneurs and artists on the Lok Bhavan lawn. He also inspected the exhibits showcasing local products, crafts and talents.
The ‘At Home’ ceremony, themed “Colors of India”, was curated by the Governor’s Secretariat in collaboration with the Department of Arts and Culture. It featured a series of cultural performances highlighting the diversity of India and Meghalaya.
The programme included Jogari, Jagarna and Rouf dances presented by the Jammu & Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture & Languages; Bhawai Dance and Kalbelia–Keshria Balam from Rajasthan; and a performance of “Milke Sare Bandhan Todenge Hum” by Karnataka Sangha, Mandya.
Meghalaya’s cultural heritage was represented through Ka Shad Mastieh, the traditional warrior dance of the Khasi community; the Wangala Harvest Dance of the Garo community; and Chad Kheit Soh, a traditional folk dance of the Jaintia community.
A Bharatanatyam presentation of Vande Mataram by Prajna Kashyap from Mysore, Karnataka, as well as a cultural presentation from Bengal, further added to the programme. The Jazz Band and Symphony Band of the Assam Rifles and the Assam Regimental Centre Band also performed during the celebration.
Grassroots Achievers Felicitated
The occasion also featured the felicitation of grassroots achievers from Meghalaya for their contributions in different fields.
Lynti Rynghang from Ri Bhoi District was recognised for woodcraft, Norma R. Lakiang from East Khasi Hills for bonsai, and Dirot Chambugong Marak from West Garo Hills for his work in traditional musical instruments.
Winners of the Flower Show, including the King of Flower Show, Queen of Flower Show and Best Stall, were also felicitated.
Following the cultural programme, Lok Bhavan was opened to the public for the afternoon, allowing thousands of visitors to explore the historic premises and view the various stalls and displays featuring the work and products of local entrepreneurs.
The Governor’s Secretariat said the opening of Lok Bhavan to citizens carried special significance in the broader transformation from Raj Bhavan to Lok Bhavan—from the traditional concept of the “house of the ruler” to the “house of the people.”
By welcoming citizens into the premises on Independence Day, the institution sought to underline its commitment to openness, participation and inclusiveness, reaffirming that Lok Bhavan belongs to and serves the people.
