Tura, May 23: Conrad K. Sangma today attended the centenary celebration of Tura Natya Samity at Lower Babupara in Tura, marking 100 years of the institution’s contribution to art, culture, theatre and social harmony in the region.
The inaugural programme, held at the Samity premises, commemorated the organisation’s century-long journey since its establishment in 1926 and celebrated its legacy in preserving cultural traditions, promoting theatrical excellence and nurturing generations of artists and performers.
The celebration began with the arrival and felicitation of the Chief Minister and other dignitaries, followed by the lighting of the ceremonial lamp, unveiling of the commemorative plaque and release of ceremonial balloons, officially marking the beginning of the year-long centenary celebrations.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister congratulated the members, artists and well-wishers of the Samity on achieving the historic milestone and paid tribute to the generations of leaders, office bearers and cultural enthusiasts who contributed to the institution’s remarkable journey.
“This is truly a momentous occasion, and as we celebrate this milestone, it is also important for us to look back on the remarkable journey of the last 100 years,” he said.
He stated that the Samity continues to stand strong because of the dedication and sacrifices of former presidents, secretaries, artists and members who devoted themselves to preserving culture and strengthening the institution over generations.
Describing the Samity as “a guardian of our heritage and a living witness to history,” the Chief Minister said the institution has witnessed British India, India’s Independence, the formation of Meghalaya and the evolution of modern Meghalaya while remaining steadfast in its cultural mission.
Highlighting its historical role, he noted that since 1926, the Samity has pioneered theatre, drama, music, dance and literary expression in the region, serving as a platform for nurturing actors, musicians, writers and performers from the Garo Hills.
“In many ways, the history of this Samity is deeply intertwined with the cultural identity of the Garo Hills itself,” he remarked.
Speaking on the importance of culture and creative industries, the Chief Minister said Meghalaya’s tribal heritage, indigenous languages and vibrant musical traditions form the backbone of the State’s identity. He stressed that culture is not only about preserving tradition but also about creating economic opportunities.
Referring to Meghalaya’s growing prominence in the entertainment sector, he said Shillong, once recognised as the “Rock Capital of India,” is now emerging as the “Music Capital of India.” He highlighted that Meghalaya has become a major destination for live concerts, hosting internationally renowned artists including Def Leppard, Bryan Adams, Ed Sheeran, Europe, Akon and The Script.
The Chief Minister said the Government’s Meghalaya Grassroots Music Project is supporting over 7,000 artists by providing honorariums ranging from ₹8,000 to ₹50,000 per performance, helping music evolve into a sustainable livelihood opportunity.
He also announced that the Government is establishing a world-class Film Institute in Shillong and a Music Institute in Tura to nurture creative talent and strengthen the State’s cultural ecosystem.
Emphasising unity in diversity, the Chief Minister stated that institutions like Tura Natya Samity play a crucial role in promoting mutual respect, harmony and cultural understanding through art and cultural exchange.
“We firmly believe that development that erases identity is not true development. In Meghalaya, we believe that identity itself is our development engine,” he asserted.
Highlighting the role of technology in preserving culture, he spoke about the Government’s digital archive initiative Hello Meghalaya, launched in 2024 to preserve films, music, stories, sports and cultural expressions in local languages.
He also noted that the Shillong Literary Festival has grown into one of the largest literary gatherings in the Northeast, bringing together local and international authors on a common platform.
Calling upon the youth to preserve indigenous traditions while embracing innovation, the Chief Minister said institutions such as Tura Natya Samity have the potential to evolve into regional hubs for cultural learning and performing arts training.
On the occasion, the Chief Minister announced financial assistance of ₹25 lakh for infrastructure development and strengthening of the Samity.
Also speaking at the programme were Vibhor Aggarwal, who praised the institution’s role in promoting cultural unity and artistic excellence, and Pranab Bhowmik, who highlighted the Samity’s remarkable journey and contributions over the decades.
A commemorative souvenir documenting the history and legacy of the Samity was formally released during the programme.
The event featured a welcome song by members of the Samity, cultural performances and group dances celebrating India’s unity in diversity and reflecting the rich artistic heritage nurtured by the institution over the last century.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Alok Roy.
Founded in 1926, Tura Natya Samity remains one of the oldest and most respected cultural organisations in the region, continuing to serve as a platform for preserving tradition, promoting theatre and nurturing artistic talent across Meghalaya and the Northeast.
