Shillong, May 15: Chief Minister Conrad Sangma on Thursday laid the foundation stone for the Indigenous Cultural Centre of Seng Khasi Kmie at Mawkhar, here in presence of Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong, Minister for Art and Culture Paul Lyngdoh, community elders, and members of the Seng Khasi.
The centre is being constructed at a cost ofRs 15 crore and is being envisioned as a living gateway to the Khasi heritage. It will be a space where traditions are not only displayed but actively practiced, passed on, and celebrated.
“This is not just a building, but the foundation of a cultural movement — a place where our identity, rituals, beliefs, and way of life are preserved for generations to come,” the chief minister said.
“For over a century, many important rituals have been performed in open spaces without proper infrastructure. We are correcting that with a commitment that reflects the cultural significance of our people,” he said.
Talking on the importance of promotion and conservation of indigenous practices, he said, “When we speak about preserving our culture, our way of life, and our history, we are talking about safeguarding the essence of who we are as a community. Our customs, rituals, language, and beliefs—these are not relics of the past, but living expressions of our identity.”
Stating that the tribal communities of North East are unique and different in many ways, he said, “We have not been able to document our history, our beliefs and our culture. Through the Chief Minister Research Fellowship (CMRF), the government is promoting research, so that our tradition and our history can be preserved.”
Hoping that the centre will be a space for learning and sharing of knowledge, he said, “The centre should demonstrate and showcase our rich culture to the world, as well as enable our youth to learn from the elders, scholars who can share their wisdom with the next generation.”
Stating that India is a beautiful and diverse nation, he said, “Our government has been supporting different communities to preserve their rich heritage and culture. As a government, we want to ensure that all communities in the state are able to grow, live in harmony, and showcase the diversity of our nation”.
“Since 2018, my government has made it a mission to support, promote, preserve, and celebrate the cultural wealth of our people—whether it is the music of our hills, the dance of our ancestors, the language of our forebears, or the rituals and philosophies that define our worldview,” he added.
He further said that the project was conceptualised and envisioned by the community. “From planning to execution, we are working hand-in-hand with the community. Our government believes in inclusivity—every citizen, every organisation is part of our vision. We will never segregate, but work together as one.”
