Me’gong Festival 2025 Opens to a Spectacular Start in Garo Hills

The fifth edition of the Me’gong Festival 2025 opened with tremendous excitement and a spectacular showcase in Garo Hills, with thousands of visitors thronging the venue. Hon’ble Chief Minister Shri Conrad K. Sangma graced the State’s flagship cultural festival, reaffirming Meghalaya’s growing influence in India’s concert and cultural economy.

The opening night on the Aski Stage set a high bar, beginning with an unforgettable performance by global pop-rock icon Richard Marx, who sang some of his timeless classics along with tracks from his upcoming album Afterhours. Expressing his joy, Marx said, “I’m so happy to be here… very happy to see you guys.”

The momentum rose further when Neeti Mohan delivered a power-packed performance of Bollywood chart-toppers like Ishq Wala Love, Jiya Re, London Thumakda, and more. Her heartfelt tribute to legendary artist Zubeen Garg, with the song Mayabini—at the birthplace of the icon—moved the audience deeply. She praised Meghalaya and Garo Hills, saying, “Why did I not come here before? It’s beautiful. You all live in heaven on earth.”

As the night progressed, the crowd’s energy surged, singing in unison to every beat. By the time Nucleya took the stage, Me’gong had transformed into a high-voltage dance arena. The day also featured soulful reggae rhythms by Julian Marley, son of Bob Marley, drawing thunderous applause.

Local artists shone equally bright, with performances by Haystack Ladies, Strum Stories, Ahaia, and others showcasing the strength of Meghalaya’s evolving music landscape.

A major highlight of Day 1 was the electrifying showcase by the Top 7 finalists of the Chief Minister’s Meghalaya Grassroots Music Project (CM-MGMP). Sharing a stage with global sensations marked a milestone for emerging artists from across the State. Nictophilia, Magnificent Obsession, Necroscope, Emberfall, Imphaled, Misagathia, and Rise & Shine won hearts with their power-packed acts.
Nineteen-year-old artist Jakrima R Marak from Tura said, “MGMP is helping local musicians grow and promoting budding artists across the state.”

The festival grounds also buzzed with culinary excitement as the Great Garo Hills Cook Off returned, joined by MasterChef India Season 8 runner-up Nambie Jessica Marak as a special guest. She applauded participants for their indigenous-meets-modern fusion dishes prepared using rare, local ingredients, calling them a revival of “lost heritage.”

Visitors were treated to an immersive cultural experience — traditional sports like Anding Oka, VR zones, the lively Brew Village, handicraft stalls, PRIME Meghalaya entrepreneur-led food and beverage stalls, and vibrant cultural interactions across the venue.

The seamless integration of indigenous heritage and contemporary experiences reaffirmed Me’gong as one of India’s most dynamic cultural festivals.

With Day 1 setting a benchmark, excitement builds for Day 2. The Aski Stage will feature Blue, global electronic duo Yellow Claw, and performances by Kanika Kapoor and Prateek Kuhad. The Kingfisher Stage will host Hoi Hoi Makbil, G-Hills Finest, Crack Gang, Rough Road, Nokpante, along with cosplay and cultural showcases.

Festival-goers can expect yet another unforgettable day of music, culture and celebration as Me’gong Festival 2025 continues to rise as a cultural powerhouse of the Northeast.