Shillong, August 12 : The Lok Bhavan in Shillong will open its doors to the general public on August 15 and 16 as part of celebrations marking India’s 80th Independence Day, offering visitors an opportunity to experience cultural performances, exhibitions and other activities showcasing the traditions of India and Meghalaya.
According to a communiqué issued by the Governor’s Secretariat, Lok Bhavan will remain open from 1.30 PM to 8 PM on August 15 and from 11 AM to 8 PM on August 16, with free entry for all visitors.
The two-day programme will feature cultural performances by artistes and troupes from different parts of the country, highlighting India’s cultural diversity and the spirit of unity in diversity.
Performances will include the Bhawai Dance and Kalbelia from Rajasthan, along with the Dogri, Kashmiri, Gojri and Pahari dances from Jammu and Kashmir. A composite Hindi cultural presentation highlighting the heritage and identity of Jammu and Kashmir will also be staged.
Artistes from Karnataka will present Bharatanatyam, while a cultural troupe from the Karnataka Sangha, Mandya, will also participate in the programme.
Representing Meghalaya, cultural performances showcasing the traditions of the Khasi, Jaintia and Garo communities will be presented, giving visitors an opportunity to experience the indigenous cultural heritage of the state.
A Military Band from the Assam Regimental Centre will also perform during the Independence Day celebrations.
The programme will further feature exhibitions on agriculture, floriculture, horticulture and other sectors, displaying products, technologies and services. Flowers, orchids and traditional artefacts will also be showcased.
Food stalls offering local cuisine and other popular food items will be available, while selected products will be put on sale. An exhibition featuring artefacts, manuscripts, handicrafts and other works of art will also form part of the celebrations.
In the evening, the Lok Bhavan premises will be illuminated in the colours of the Indian Tricolour, adding to the festive atmosphere and symbolising national pride and unity.
The Governor’s Secretariat said opening Lok Bhavan to the public reflects the broader transformation from the traditional concept of Raj Bhavan — the house of the ruler — to Lok Bhavan — the house of the people.
By welcoming citizens during the Independence Day celebrations, Lok Bhavan seeks to promote openness, participation and inclusiveness while reaffirming that the institution belongs to and serves the people.
