Shillong Cherry Blossom Festival 2024 Ends on a High Note, Witnesses All Time Highest Number of Visitors
“Cherry Blossom Festival has entered a self-sustainable mode, a feat rarely approached by any music festival across Northeast,” Chief Minister Shri Conrad K Sangma
The Shillong Cherry Blossom Festival 2024 came to a grand conclusion, leaving the festival-goers amazed with a legendary lineup of performances, cultural showcases, and fun activities that made this year’s event truly unforgettable. Held at the RBDSA Sports Complex, the two-day festival attracted more than 50,000 visitors each day, celebrating music, at the “Music Capital of India”.
The final day was a fitting climax. Internationally acclaimed British band Clean Bandit delivering an electrifying performance that had the audience swaying to their global hits. Bollywood sensation Kanika Kapoor added her signature charm, while Dutch-Moroccan DJ R3HAB brought the house down with his high-energy beats, transforming the arena into a pulsating dance floor. Local stars, including Khasi Bloodz and SK Korn, continued to shine, representing the vibrant talent of Meghalaya and showcasing the region’s deep connection to music.
The festival kicked off on November 15 with a spectacular Day 1, headlined by global R&B icon Akon, who mesmerized the crowd with hits from his Superfan Tour. Legendary band Boney M, on their Farewell Tour, delivered a nostalgic performance. Other highlights include renditions by Jasleen Royal, an electrifying show by international artist Lucas, and powerful performances by regional favourites like The Great Society, Rito Riba and Queen Sensation. The day also featured the highly anticipated Sakura Fashion Design Contest, alongside art installations and diverse food stalls that kept the crowd engaged throughout.
Adding to the festival’s success, the Japan Arena stood out as a hub, hosting anime screenings, cosplay competitions, and interactive activities that drew in fans of all ages. Across both days, visitors also enjoyed karaoke sessions, sumo wrestling demonstrations, and a host of engaging activities in the Japanese arena that made the festival an inclusive experience for all.
Akon, who arrived Assam yesterday was welcomed with a spectacular Khasi Welcome to Northeast at Hotel Mayfair Guwahati. Followed which, he also experienced a traditional welcome by the Khasi Seng Community.
The relentless efforts of Government of Meghalaya, through these festivals not only brings thousands of tourists to the state, creating an exceptional example of boosting economic growth but also promotes the local and aspiring stars of Meghalaya making the MGMP Artists perform at such a big platform. While inaugurating the festival yesterday, Hon’ble DoNER Minister Shri Jyotiraditya Scindia shared his incredible experience saying he has never seen such energy in any festival across India. He lauded the efforts of the Government and the people of Meghalaya, saying, “Hats off to Conrad; hats off to you all(the people of Meghalaya)”
Under the leadership of Hon’ble Chief Minister Shri Conrad K. Sangma, the government has worked tirelessly to elevate the festival’s stature on the global stage. The seamless organization, diverse programming, and focus on showcasing local talent alongside international stars exemplify the vision and dedication of the Hon’ble Chief Minister, who is himself a musician and an ardent lover of music.
- As the curtain falls on this year’s festivities, the Shillong Cherry Blossom Festival has once again proven to be a landmark event, bringing together the best of global and local culture while celebrating the unique beauty of Meghalaya’s Cherry
Blossoms.
