This Christmas marked a rare and meaningful moment in Meghalaya’s political landscape as the Bharatiya Janata Party celebrated the festival at its Shillong office for the first time in the state’s history. The office, usually a hub of political activity, took on a warmer, more human tone as party leaders and workers came together to mark the occasion.
What made the celebration truly significant was the message behind it. Chicken was served for lunch, followed by fish fingers later in the day — a simple yet powerful gesture in a state where food is closely tied to culture and identity. The act directly addressed long-standing fears that the BJP’s presence could interfere with local food habits or religious practices.
The BJP Meghalaya State President said the programme was held with the permission of State Prabhari Anil Antony and called it a strong message to the people. “For the first time in the history of BJP Meghalaya, we are celebrating Christmas in keeping with the sentiments and food habits of the local people,” he said. Beyond politics, the celebration reflected respect — for faith, culture and community. Without slogans or symbolism forced upon the moment, the message was clear: in Meghalaya, traditions are to be honoured, not altered.