Mendipathar, Jan 18: Garo language, which is fighting for inclusion in the Eighth Schedule, has piqued Trinamool Congress chief Mamata Banerjee’s interest.
During her public address here on Wednesday, Banerjee said she would like to learn the local language. “Next time I come, please teach me your language. I heard Dr Mukul Sangma speak in Garo and it sounded so sweet. I will be very happy to learn your language. Meanwhile, I can start learning Garo on YouTube,” she said.
At the end of her speech, Banerjee, who was presented with the traditional headgear kotip, connected with the public by declaring the winning phrase from West Bengal elections, “Khela hobe (the game is on).” She repeated the phrase in Garo, “kalani onggen”.
Banerjee’s state West Bengal too has Garo population. Garam Basti in Alipur Duar has a substantial Garo population. However, the tribe is losing its identity in the state owing to the ignorance of government officials.
When this correspondent met the Garo villagers in North Bengal, they said many Garo families gave up matriliny practice because not many officials were aware of it. The Garo culture and heritage are also becoming extinct here.
This is Banerjee’s first visit to Garo Hills. It was on Wednesday that the Election Commission of India announced poll dates for Meghalaya, Tripura and Nagaland.
