Shillong is gearing up to host the 55th edition of Bob Dylan Day, regarded as the world’s longest-running tribute to Nobel Prize-winning music icon Bob Dylan. The two-day celebration will be held on May 23 and 24. The annual tribute is spearheaded by legendary Indian rock musician Lou Majaw, who has been celebrating Dylan’s birthday in Shillong continuously since 1972. Over the decades, the event has evolved from a small gathering of friends into a major musical tradition that attracts fans from across India and abroad. The programme is being organised by Mawjam Event Network in collaboration with the Lou Majaw Foundation.
Reflecting on the legacy of the celebration, Lou Majaw said Bob Dylan’s music inspired generations by showing that songs could become a medium of protest, storytelling and spirituality. He added that the annual tribute is not about imitation, but about remembering the deeper purpose of music. This year’s edition will feature performances and cultural events across multiple venues in Shillong.
The celebrations will begin on May 23 with a tribute concert at The Evening Club, where Lou Majaw will perform alongside The Electric Garden.On May 24, an open-street musical event will take place at Khyndai Lad in Police Bazar between 4 pm and 6 pm. The free public programme, to be held opposite Choudhury Pharmacy, will include live music performances, poetry readings and remembrance sessions dedicated to Dylan’s legacy.
Later in the evening, Cafe Shillong in Laitumkhrah will host another special session featuring performances by Reuben Z Lyngdoh, Christopher Dylan Majaw and Phrangsngi Wahlang along with Lou Majaw. Edwigh Eddie Majaw described the 55-year journey as a symbol of Shillong’s enduring love for music and said the event continues to celebrate the power of art to inspire and bring people together.