Shillong 3rd November 2025: Don Bosco College, Byndihati, successfully hosted its magnificent Cultural Fest 2025 on 31st October 2025, uniting diverse student communities under the inspiring theme: “Bridging Cultures as Digital Natives and Global Citizens.” The festival was a vibrant showcase of the rich cultural tapestry of Northeast India, blended with a forward-looking perspective on global citizenship and digital literacy.
The day began at 9:30 am with a spectacular Cultural Procession, featuring the grand entry of participants, dignitaries, and cultural troupes. The formal proceedings commenced with an Invocation, followed by a welcome address by Fr. Daniel Cajee, the principal.
The highlight of the inaugural ceremony was the presence of Mr. Sankey Shangpung, MDC of Bataw-Lakadong constituency and Chairman of JHADC, who, after being felicitated, officially declared the Cultural Fest 2025 open. In his Keynote Address, Mr. Shangpung strongly encouraged the students to “preserve and celebrate culture”, emphasizing its crucial role in identity formation.
A series of enchanting cultural performances followed, including a lively Mizo & Biate Song, an energetic Reang Dance by the Tripuri group, the graceful Tamang Selo Dance by the Nepali group, and the beautiful ‘Shad Synrai’ (Khasi & Jaintia Dance). The commitment to social well-being was underlined by the formal administration of the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan Pledge, committing students to a drug-free life.
The morning also saw a unique Mashup performance by the Teachers & Students and culminated with a significant moment: the Chief Guest’s Book Release Ceremony – the release of the first publication of the College entitled ‘Glimpses Poetic musings’ – an anthology. The morning concluded with an address by Mr. Saljong R. Marak, MCS, DPO, followed by the formal opening of the Cultural Food Stalls & Exhibits, allowing guests to savour regional cuisines and view cultural displays.
The festive spirit continued into the afternoon session, commencing at 1:30 pm. Mrs. Violet Lyngdoh, MDC of Khliehriat-Rymbai constituency, graced the event as the Chief Guest. Following the welcome and felicitation, the stage came alive with the Cultural Showcase.
The performances were a testament to the students’ dedication and talent, featuring the dynamic Arunachali – Biije Panye Dance, the traditional Shad Nongkyndong (Khasi Dance), the spirited Mebur Lamlian Lehhlam Dance by the Mizo & Biate groups, and the captivating Mamita Dance from the Tripuri community. The afternoon also included a dramatic Mizo play, ‘Ral a lian e’ (‘The enemy is here’), a fierce Sword Fighting Display, and the traditional Phawar Khasi poetic chants. Chief Guest Mrs. Violet Lyngdoh was particularly moved, stating she was “taken up by the standard of the performance” and encouraged the students to ‘keep up with the expression of respect and love for cultures.”
The cultural runway was a major attraction, with students confidently walking the ramp to display the distinct traditional attire of the Tripuri, Mizo, Biate, Naga, Manipuri, Arunachali, Nepali, Khasi, and Jaintia cultures, beautifully showcasing the region’s sartorial heritage.
The day concluded with the much-anticipated Results & Awards ceremony, where outstanding participants were recognized. The Cultural Fest 2025 was then formally declared closed by the Chief Guest, bringing the vibrant day to an end with the National Anthem and a final farewell.
Reported by Fr. Dabitlang Daniel Cajee sdb
