The annual event in Meghalaya - Shillong Cherry Blossom Festival - is set to take place in November this year with Japan as a partner country, an official said on Monday.
The official said that beyond music, the Shillong Cherry Blossom Festival carries a special significance with the announcement of Japan as the partner country.
“This collaboration was sparked by the striking resemblance of Cherry Blossoms in Meghalaya and Japan which was also noted by the Japanese Ambassador during his visit to Meghalaya last year,” he added.
He said that the visitors will have the chance to explore Japan’s culture and heritage through a dedicated stall at the venue.
The tradition of celebrating ‘Hanami,’ (Cherry Blossom) dates back over a thousand years in Japan while the Shillong Cherry Blossom Festival was first launched in 2016 and is the first autumn Cherry Blossom Festival in the world.
According to an official statement, since its inception, this unique festival has drawn tourists from all over India and beyond. The Shillong Cherry Blossom Festival 2023 edition saw record participation, with visitors from all across the country and even international travellers. And, this year, it is expected to be even grander.
With the ‘Year of Legends’ theme bringing together iconic artists and cultural exchanges, this year’s Shillong Cherry Blossom Festival promises to be a spectacular experience for all attendees.
The event will take place on November 15 and 16th this year.
An official mentioned that on the first day, the festival will set the stage with a legendary musical experience.
“Festival Goers will be treated to performances by Boney M as part of their Farewell Tour. This definitely is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness the iconic band live. Joining them will be the soulful Jasleen Royal and international sensation Lucas,” he said.
According to an official statement, the second day promises even more excitement, with Akon headlining his Superfan Tour.
Apart from performances of Kanika Kapoor and others, local talents like Rito Riba, Queen Sensation, Khasi Bloodz, and various artists from the Meghalaya Grassroots Music Project (MGMP), will also be performing in the festival, thereby ensuring a perfect blend of international and regional music.
‘Pahalgam incident deeply disturbing & tragic’: Former Pakistan PM Imran Khan
Former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Tuesday termed the Pahalgam terror attack as disturbing & tragic and also condoled the victims and their families.
Congress finally deletes 'Gayab' post targeting PM Modi after outrage
Under fire from the BJP over its social media post targeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Congress finally, on Tuesday, took down the controversial post.
Guterres calls EAM Jaishankar, Pak PM Sharif; stresses pursuing justice in Pahalgam terror attack
Secretary-General Antonio Guterres stressed the importance of pursuing justice in the Pahalgam terrorist attack while speaking with External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar and Pakistan’s Prime Minister Muhammad Shebaz Sharif, his Spokesperson Stephane Dujarric said on Tuesday.
Congress organises ‘Save Constitution’ rallies across NE states
The opposition Congress has been organising ‘Samvidhan Bachao’ (Save Constitution) campaign in the northeastern states. Claiming that the Constitution is in danger under the BJP-led Central government, the opposition Congress held a massive rally in Agartala on Tuesday.
RSS chief Bhagwat meets PM Modi after security huddle: Signs of a hard-hitting response in the works
In a significant political development, RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat met Prime Minister Narendra Modi at his official residence at 7, Lok Kalyan Marg on Tuesday evening.
What PM Modi's free hand to armed forces against terror means for cross-border action?
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s unambiguous message during a high-level security meeting - ‘India is determined to deliver a crushing blow to terrorism’ - marks more than just a strong statement of resolve.
Justice BR Gavai appointed as next Chief Justice of India
Justice Gavai was elevated as a Judge of the Supreme Court on May 29, 2019. Appointed as Additional Judge of the Bombay High Court in November 2003, he became a permanent Judge in November 2005.
Three more Bangladeshi nationals held in Tripura
The Tripura Frontier of the Border Security Force (BSF) on Tuesday apprehended three Bangladeshi nationals, including a woman, for illegally entering India, officials said.