Revamped Williamson Sangma Museum Unveils Modern Display of Meghalaya’s Rich Heritage

Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma inaugurated the newly revamped Williamson Sangma Meghalaya State Museum at the U Soso Tham Auditorium in Shillong. The event marked a significant milestone in the preservation and promotion of the state’s cultural identity. The museum, now equipped with advanced technologies such as QR-code based exhibits and interactive digital displays, offers an immersive experience highlighting Meghalaya's rich and diverse cultural heritage.

The inauguration ceremony was graced by dignitaries including Minister for Arts and Culture Paul Lyngdoh and Power Minister Abu Taher Mondal. In his address, Chief Minister Sangma underscored the museum’s expanded role not just as a repository of history but as a platform for cultural celebration and economic creativity. He emphasized the importance of embedding cultural awareness in the younger generation and announced that school visits to the museum would be made mandatory to foster appreciation for local heritage.

To extend the reach of such cultural initiatives, Sangma announced plans to establish similar museums in other regions of the state, beginning with Tura. This move is intended to decentralize cultural education and make Meghalaya’s heritage accessible to a broader population. He also shared key findings from research supported by the Chief Minister’s Research Grant. These include the rediscovery of traditional Garo games and archaeological discoveries such as ancient stone monoliths that could date back to 1200 BC, indicating the state’s deep historical roots.

The chief minister praised various ongoing efforts to document and promote local culture, particularly through platforms like the state-run OTT channel “Hello Meghalaya,” which showcases regional music, folklore, and documentaries. These efforts, Sangma said, are vital in ensuring that Meghalaya’s heritage is preserved and presented to both residents and tourists.

Additionally, Sangma announced plans to promote the relic of St. Don Bosco in Sohra as a key heritage site for tourism. This, he said, would further add to the state’s appeal as a cultural and historical destination.

The ceremony also saw the release of a commemorative stamp in honor of Captain Williamson Sangma, the state's first Chief Minister and a pivotal figure in the formation of Meghalaya. The stamp was received by his youngest daughter, Rebecca Momin, in a touching tribute.

The event coincided with “Samvidhan Hatya Diwas,” which marks 50 years since the Emergency was imposed in India. During his speech, Sangma took the opportunity to reflect on the importance of upholding constitutional values such as justice, liberty, equality, and democracy. He called on citizens to remain vigilant in protecting these freedoms.

In concluding his speech, Sangma expressed pride in the transformation of the museum, recalling his initial visit in 2018. He described the museum not just as a physical structure but as a “living testament” to Meghalaya’s identity, creativity, and collective future, embodying the spirit of the people and the state’s cultural journey.