Shillong: As the sun dipped below the horizon, the lawns of India Gate transformed into a stage for the soul-stirring sounds of Meghalaya. The Chief Minister’s Meghalaya Grassroots Music Project (CM-MGMP) brought a slice of the hill state’s vibrant culture to the capital, captivating Delhiites and tourists alike with an unforgettable evening of music. The event was not just a concert but a celebration of cultural pride and artistic talent, showcasing a unique blend of traditional folk and contemporary rhythms.
The initiative, launched in 2022 and revamped in 2025 under Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma, is a ₹69 crore effort to build a sustainable music economy. It has already provided a platform for over 7,750 artists, facilitating more than 13,000 performances. The project aims to empower local and tribal musicians, offering them a chance to shine and earn a livelihood from their craft. The Delhi performances featured a diverse lineup, including the youth-led Garo fusion collective Skubo Project, the reggae-inspired The Lynx from Jowai, the lyrical prowess of Chegim Durama from Tura, and the melodious indie-folk sounds of Elena Sohktung & Band. These artists performed not only at India Gate but also at Dilli Haat, extending their musical journey across the city.
This cultural showcase was a feast for the senses, with visitors also getting to savour Meghalaya’s famed pineapples and other local delicacies. The CM-MGMP is one of India’s most ambitious models for music-driven social empowerment, with a goal of hosting over 38,000 live shows. The initiative is set to boost the average artist income to ₹10,000 per show, giving local musicians a powerful voice and national visibility. The India Gate performance served as another significant step in Meghalaya’s mission to bring its rich musical heritage to the forefront, one performance at a time.
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