Shillong(Meghalaya), March 14: The Department of Tourism, Government of Meghalaya today, felicitated beneficiaries of the Meghalaya Grassroots Music Project (MGMP), Season 2 at an event held here .
The event was organized to recognize and celebrate inspiring local artists who have contributed to the state’s vibrant music scene.
Esteemed dignitaries in attendance included CM Conrad K. Sangma, Cyril V. D. Diengdoh, IAS, Director of Tourism, actor and owner of Northeast United FC, John Abraham, amongst others.
Launched in April 2022, the MGMP has proved to be a platform for Meghalaya’s talented local musicians and artists. The project extends beyond just music, as it has enabled job creation and empowered young artists of the state to highlight their talents. It has not only nurtured local talent but also provided recognition, significantly enriching the musical landscape in Meghalaya.
950 artists have been registered in the second season of the Meghalaya Grassroots Music Project.
CM Conrad K Sangma while addressing the gathering said, “I am sure at one point in your life, you started off with that real desire in your heart, and the love for music and wanted to be a musician. All the different programs we are doing today, were inspired by those thoughts and though I could not become a successful musician, every time I try to look at policies and programs and how our youth need support. The Meghalaya Grassroots Music Program is one of the most satisfying programs for me because I really see and feel the impact that it has to be able to make a difference in the lives of our young musicians and the youth in general. This gives me a great sense of satisfaction.”
CM Conrad also encouraged the musicians to utilize and take advantage of technology, using the different tools that are available to take music to a different level. While stating of the success of the MGMP, he also stressed on the need to put in more efforts by providing training to musicians and guide them in a professional manner, where the artists can be skilled so they can perform even in a way that it is done at the international level.
“Don’t think of yourself as only a musician, look at yourselves as ambassadors of the music sector, as people who have the capacity to be able to make a difference so that you will leave a better sector and a better ecosystem for the future artists who want to come in.” Conrad K Sangma was quoted saying.
The ceremony marked the launch of the book “The Songs of Our People” by Anurag Banerjee. Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma, Actor John Abraham also felicitated the MGMP beneficiaries.
“I am in the music capital of India, Shillong. What the Chief Minister of Meghalaya, Conrad K Sangma is doing with music, sports, is very impressive, to encourage artists, encourage music. To all the artists, keep living your dreams, today you got the opportunity where the minister being a fantastic musician himself is here to promote and push each one of you. I would say, take advantage of this situation, make the most of it, go out there, play your hearts out, enjoy this art and talent that you possess and have a great time,” stated actor and owner of Northeast United FC, John Abraham.
Adding to the vibrant atmosphere, local artists including Gracyl Ropmay, Felix Langstieh, Desmond Rimaki Sunn, Tengnang Sangma, Amabel Susngi, Cinda Sangma, Staryl Shullai, and inspiring differently abled artists who enthralled the audience with their performances and captivating backstory of their musical journeys.
Cyril V. D. Diengdoh, IAS, Director of Tourism, in his address stated that the music industry is an important facet of the culture of Meghalaya. Speaking on the MGMP, he said that it is one of the largest music programs in any part of the country supporting close to three thousand artists who are performing at various locations across the state – cafes, games, busking zones, and all over the state especially, Shillong, Tura, Jowai, Sohra and Cherrapunjee.
