International pop-rock sensation Richard Marx is set to light up the Me’gong Festival 2025 in Tura, western Meghalaya, adding a major global draw to one of the state’s most anticipated cultural celebrations. Organisers formally announced his participation on Friday, November 28, confirming that the two-day festival scheduled for December 5 and 6 will feature a powerful mix of international, national and local talent.
Joining Marx on the mainstage will be the acclaimed Dutch electronic duo Yellow Claw, known for their high-energy performances at music festivals worldwide. From India’s mainstream music circuit, popular Bollywood voices Kanika Kapoor and Neeti Mohan are also set to perform, adding star value and diversity to the festival’s musical lineup.
The Me’gong Festival has consistently celebrated the vibrant traditions and artistic expressions of the Garo Hills, and this edition aims to deepen that cultural experience. Alongside the star-studded musical acts, home-grown performers such as Rough Road, Hoi Hoi Makbil and the Haystack Ladies will highlight local talent, ensuring a strong regional presence throughout the event.
Beyond the stage, visitors will be offered a deeper insight into the cultural fabric of the region. The festival will include traditional Garo cuisine stalls, craft exhibitions, bamboo and weaving workshops, and displays of intricate beaded jewellery created by local artisans. Festival organisers have also underscored their commitment to eco-friendly practices, with zero-plastic guidelines, community-led waste management, and environmentally conscious installations forming a core part of the 2025 edition.
According to Meghalaya Tourism, the festival plays an important role in strengthening the state’s cultural economy, an initiative championed by Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma. Officials believe that hosting international performers of Marx’s stature will not only boost tourism but also enhance the identity of the Garo Hills as a cultural and creative hub in the Northeast.
The upcoming edition of the Me’gong Festival is poised to blend global soundscapes with the distinctive cultural heartbeat of Meghalaya, offering visitors an immersive experience that celebrates both heritage and contemporary creativity.