DAWKI: History was made on the crystal-clear waters of the Umngot River as the legendary boat race, known locally as the ‘Sport Lieng’ (Boat Sport), was resurrected after a hiatus of 28 years.
The exciting two-day competition took place on December 12th and 13th in Darang village, bringing back a cherished and long-forgotten traditional sport of the Khasi-Jaintia communities residing along the river banks.
A Cultural Revival at the Tri Hills Festival
This memorable event was a vital component of the 4th edition of the Tri Hills Festival and stood as a significant effort to revitalize Meghalaya’s deep-rooted culture. The traditional boat race, which is deeply ingrained in the region’s heritage, was last held in 1997 in Dawki, also on the Umngot River. The 28-year gap only amplified the excitement, drawing enthusiastic participation reminiscent of the fervour seen three decades ago.
The event was meticulously organized by the Elaka Darrang with support from the Arts and Culture Department, Government of Meghalaya. The competition was formally inaugurated by Frederick Roy Kharkongor, Principal Secretary of the Arts and Culture Department, Government of Meghalaya, alongside Eoghan O’Regan, Head of the Welsh Government at the British Deputy High Commission.
Other dignitaries present included P. Lymba, Dolloi of Elaka Darrang, Alan West Kharkongor, President of the Meghalaya River Tourism Forum (MRTF), and several other elders.
Celebrating Heritage and Nature
In his inaugural address, Kharkongor expressed his profound joy at the successful revival of one of Meghalaya’s lost traditional sports. He emphasized that the Tri Hills Festival is not just a platform for celebration, but a meaningful endeavour aimed at protecting, preserving, and enriching the state’s diverse and rich cultural identity.
O’Regan lauded the natural beauty of Meghalaya—its hills, land, and rivers—stressing the importance of preserving these traditional customs and passing them on to future generations.
Beyond Shillong: Bringing Culture to the Fore
Alan West Kharkongor, who managed the event with his team from Weskin Enterprise, noted that this year’s Tri Hills Festival was held outside of Shillong specifically to unearth and showcase the state’s lesser-known traditional cultures. He stated that the Umngot Boat Race symbolizes a deep cultural and spiritual connection between the people and their sacred rivers, where activities like boating and swimming were integral to daily life.
97 Returnees and 80-Year-Olds Join the Thrills!
The Umngot Boat Race witnessed exhilarating participation from the residents of Darrang, Dawki, and Shnongpdeng. Contestants, including women, youth, children, and the elderly, registered not just for the boat race but also for other water sports, including water polo. In a heartwarming twist, some participants from the last boat race in 1997 returned to compete this year! Even individuals over 80 years old expressed immense happiness at witnessing the revival of a tradition they thought they would never see again.
The Champions Are Crowned!
The festive day concluded with an enthusiastic prize distribution ceremony led by the Minister of Education and local MLA, Lahkmen Rymbui, accompanied by the Director of Arts and Culture, Iadashisha Majaw.
Men’s Category Winners:
Charlie Ryngksai and his team (1st Prize)
Barist Pohktai (2nd Prize)
Henry Ryngksai and his team (3rd Prize)
Women’s Category Winners:
Shibakha team (1st Prize)
Kong Geeting Kongwang (2nd Prize)
Kong Rose Ryngksai and her team (3rd Prize)
A Musical Finale
The historic event wrapped up with a high-energy musical evening featuring performances by popular local singers and bands, including Na U Bnai, Pynter Orchestra, Dalariti, Enibha War, Sur Na Nongkyndong, Khun U Woh, Summersalt, and Snowhite, delighting the massive crowd.
