Come November, and the quaint hills of Shillong, Meghalaya, where the pine-scented air prevails, a riot of pink spreads throughout the area and transforms it into a fairyland. The roads of Guwahati to Shillong couldn’t be any more beautiful with the hues of sakura (cherry blossoms) in the surroundings. Amidst the lush landscape and the serene canvas of pink and white blooms of Sakura, Shillong celebrates the unique three-day fest every year with great enthusiasm and mesmerizing aesthetic vibes. Hence cherry trees are planted around with just as much enthusiasm.
‘Sakura’ reminds us of Japan and the USA, but the cherry blossoms adorning the streets of Shillong are no less. Cherry blossoms signify optimism and renewal in Japan. These flowers bloom at the beginning of spring. They also symbolize the transience of life as in Buddhism. Planting cherry blossom trees in Washington DC originated in 1912 as a gift of friendship between the United States and Japan.
The city of Shillong has been hosting the Cherry Blossom Festival since 2016. India’s 1st Cherry Blossom Festival held from 14th to 17th November 2016 at Shillong made a mark as the First International Cherry Blossom Festival has placed Meghalaya on the global tourist map. It was in sync with the Government of Meghalaya’s push for “Destination Meghalaya” and organized jointly by the Forests and Environment Department and the Institute of Bioresources & Sustainable Development (IBSD).
Now we know of destinations like Washington DC, Macon, Georgia, Japan, New Zealand, and parts of Korea celebrating the bloom of Sakura. What makes the cherry trees of Meghalaya unique is that sakura blooms during November here, compared to the places where it usually happens around March-April.
The ‘Scotland of the East’ , Shillong, celebrates this alluring seasonal fest promoting cultural diversity and heritage and has a plethora of activities from live music(choir, karaoke, etc.), dance competitions, fashion shows, literary events, pageants, cuisines, graffiti, arts and crafts and exhibits that showcase creativity transcending the borders of the states.
This vibrant and visually spectacular event took place from November 17–19 at the RBDSA Sports Complex in Madan Kurkalang, Bhoirymbong this year with performances including Ronan Keating, Sanam, Hybrid Theory, NE-YO, Meba Ofilia, Pink Panda, Snow White, Rahul Rajkhowa, Banjop, Kenny Music and artists like Ricaa Stella. The festival was a success, with around 65–70% of visitors coming from outside the state of Meghalaya. One can find entertainment galore, concerts, local delicacies, unparalleled view of Sakura at its peaks by touring around Ward’s Lake and Polo Ground, what else could be needed?!
The joyful fest is also a great opportunity for small-scale businesses, food vendors, and local merchants to thrive and resonate with their passion and talent. For local artists and handicraft businesses, the Sakura Fest brings out their inspirations and aesthetic appeal as well and it’s helpful in promoting their art.
The visitors and tourists are very significant in boosting the economic sector of the state. In the soft glow of festival lights, and the essence of tranquility, harmony, and togetherness brought about by the blooms of sakura, Meghalaya always gears up at its best and welcomes the world to have a glance at its ethereal beauty.