Umngot Traditional Boat Race Revives River Heritage in Meghalaya

Tri-Hills Ensemble Festival Highlights Indigenous Sports and Conservation

The Umngot Traditional Boat Race and Tri-Hills Ensemble Festival concluded on December 13 at Darrang in West Jaintia Hills district, Meghalaya , celebrating the revival of indigenous river-based traditions. Organised by the state department of arts and culture , the two-day festival combined heritage sports, cultural showcases, and messages of environmental conservation along the iconic Umngot river .

Reviving Ancestral River Traditions
The festival opened on December 12 with the ceremonial arrival of traditional boats representing local communities. These indigenous watercraft reflected generations of craftsmanship and intimate knowledge of river navigation. Participants and guests were welcomed through customary practices by the Darrang Elaka , reinforcing the community-led spirit that underpins the region’s cultural life.

Cultural Exchange and Global Presence
The inaugural day featured dignitaries, including Meghan O’Regan , Head of the Welsh Government in India at the British Deputy High Commission. Evening programmes along the riverbanks showcased vibrant folk dances, music, and storytelling traditions from the Jaintia Hills and neighbouring regions, offering audiences a vivid experience of local heritage and attire.

Indigenous Sports Take Centre Stage
The concluding day focused on competitive events rooted in traditional practices. Alongside the signature traditional boat race , competitions included swimming, water polo, diving, and other indigenous water sports. Strong participation from local youth and communities highlighted the continuing relevance of river-based skills for recreation and livelihoods.

Culture Linked with Conservation
State Education Minister Lahkmen Rymbui noted that the festival also promotes awareness about river conservation, sustainable tourism, and livelihood generation . By linking cultural revival with environmental stewardship, the event encourages responsible tourism while safeguarding fragile ecosystems. The successful conclusion of the festival underscores Meghalaya’s broader effort to align cultural preservation with sustainable development goals.

Exam-Focused Points

• The festival was held at Darrang, West Jaintia Hills district, Meghalaya .

• The Umngot river is central to local culture and ecology.

• It is organised by the state department of arts and culture .

• Indigenous water sports are a core component of the festival.