With the winter season on the horizon, Meghalaya is gearing up for a series of captivating winter activities. To kick off the much-anticipated 2023 WinterTales, a mesmerizing curtain raiser event unfolded at the Meghalayan Age, New Delhi, coinciding with the two-year anniversary of this cultural hub.
WinterTales, a beloved artisanal delight, is ready to attract visitors during its fourth edition, orchestrated by The Meghalayan Age Limited and curated by Dakti. The event is scheduled to span three enchanting days from the 14th to the 16th of December at the serene Ward’s Lake (Nan Polok) in Shillong.
A captivating video retrospective was screened, chronicling the remarkable journey of WinterTales from its modest inception in 2020 to its current grandeur.
Addressing at the curtain raiser event, Minister of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Ampareen Lyngdoh expressed, “If you see the city of Shillong today and 10 years back, you will know that we are slowly regrouping and retreating to what our forefathers have taught us in our everyday lives. On such a small space, you can literally see what Meghalaya is, as soon as you enter the doors of your store. This is a project which requires necessary handholding, they also managed to showcase some of our spices, honey, essential oils, these are all things which are our pride. I wish the fourth edition of the Winter’s Tales the very best. With these few words, I encourage the citizens of Meghalaya and the citizens of India to come to this very well organised programme, well organised festival which will you a glimpse of Meghalaya, a glimpse of the kind of art that we have and the talent that we have.”
The 2024 Calendar titled “Meghalayan Scapes” was unveiled, featuring artwork by P. Kharlukhi, a regular contributor to WinterTales. This calendar serves as a visual journey through the diverse landscapes of Meghalaya, highlighting its beauty and rich cultural heritage.
WinterTales 2023 continues its commitment to sustainability, entertainment, and craftsmanship, aiming to provide enriching experiences while preserving the environment. This year, the festival will introduce solar lighting to reduce its ecological footprint.
The festival remains a platform for local entrepreneurs to showcase their talents in music, crafts, arts, food, weaving, and more. It fosters personal connections between visitors and the people of Meghalaya, transcending the traditional marketplace concept.
The 2023 WinterTales promises to be a memorable celebration of Meghalaya’s cultural richness and the essence of the winter season. It invites visitors to immerse themselves in a world of art, and music while basking in the warmth of Meghalayan hospitality.