A traditional Wangala dance troupe from Meghalaya’s Garo Hills delivered a captivating performance in the national capital, leaving audiences enthralled during a special cultural evening at the Garden Amphitheatre in Delhi’s Sundar Nursery. The event was part of the Folk and Tribal Art-Crafts Festival organised by SPIC MACAY, which brought together performers, art lovers and cultural enthusiasts from across the country. This marks the troupe’s first-ever appearance in Delhi, making the moment a significant milestone for the performers and the Garo community. The participation was made possible through the efforts of cultural promoters Ronald Rikman and Jtasha Rikman, who played a key role in bringing the troupe from the South-West Garo Hills to the national stage.
The Wangala dance—often referred to as the “Festival of Hundred Drums”—is an important cultural celebration for the Garo people, symbolising gratitude to the deity of harvest. The Delhi audience responded with overwhelming enthusiasm, applauding the synchronised movements, traditional attire and rhythmic beats that define the iconic dance form. Speaking over the phone, Ronald Rikman shared his excitement and appreciation for the warm welcome the troupe received. He said he was “deeply proud of every dancer in the troupe,” adding that the heartfelt response from spectators across India made the performance particularly meaningful.
Rikman also stressed the need for broader recognition of the Wangala tradition. He urged cultural organisations, government departments and community leaders to work together so that the dance form can be showcased on larger platforms and eventually gain global visibility. “This art form deserves the world’s attention,” he said, calling for continued support to preserve and promote Garo heritage.