Shillong, Nov 11: Though the main Nongkrem dance festival is on Friday, the government declared a holiday for East Khasi Hills on Thursday unlike other years.
As it was a holiday, many visitors (in picture) thronged Smit on Thursday though the next day is most important.
When contacted, a government official could not give any particular reason for declaring Thursday as holiday.
The government had already declared a holiday on Friday for Wangala dance in Garo Hills.
It is not known whether the government did not want to declare a holiday for Nongkrem dance on Friday as it coincides with Wangala dance.
This resulted in government employees getting two holidays and the next working day will be only on Monday as Saturday and Sunday are also holidays.
Chief Minister Conrad Sangma, who took part in the festival, has assured to develop the area.
He said the area needs attention of the government due to flow of tourists.
