Meโgong Festival 2025 will return to Tura on December 5 and 6 ย with international artistes Richard Marx and Yellow Claw headlining the event, alongside Bollywood singers Kanika Kapoor and Neeti Mohan.
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The festival has emerged as one of Meghalayaโs largest cultural gatherings. The 2024 edition drew more than 3 lakh visitors over two days, among the highest footfalls recorded in the Northeast. Meโgong has steadily developed into a major showcase of Garo Hillsโ arts, music, food and indigenous craftsmanship.
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The state government views the festival as a driver of Meghalayaโs cultural economy, aligning with Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangmaโs broader plan to use festivals to strengthen tourism, support local livelihoods and promote community-led growth. The event provides business opportunities for hospitality operators, transport providers, artisans, food vendors and youth entrepreneurs across the region.
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This yearโs line-up includes a mix of international performers and homegrown bands such as Rough Road, Hoi Hoi Makbil, Haystack Ladies, G-Hills Finest, Crack Gang and Ahaia. Organisers said the combination aims to offer visitors a diverse musical experience that reflects both global trends and local traditions.
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Visitors will also be able to explore traditional Garo cuisine, weaving workshops, bamboo artistry, beaded jewellery and craft exhibitions that highlight the regionโs skills and heritage. The festival will continue its focus on sustainable operations, following practices such as zero-plastic zones and community-managed waste systems.
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The Garo Hills, once considered an underexplored destination, have gained prominence in recent years through events such as Meโgong. The area has increasingly been promoted as a hub for cultural tourism and outdoor experiences. In 2024, the iconic Swedish rock band EUROPE performed in the Northeast for the first time as part of the festival, adding to its growing profile.
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Updates on ticketing, schedules and performances will be available through the Meghalaya Tourism website and the festivalโs official social media channels. Organisers expect visitors from across India and overseas to attend the two-day event.