Introducing Wangala: Festival of the Hundred Drums
Wangala, Popularly known as the festival of “The Hundred Drums” is a harvest festival of the Garo Tribe residing in the “Scotland of the East”, Meghalaya as well as in Nagaland, Assam and Greater Mynmensingh in Bangladesh . Celebrated in the months from September to December, this post harvest festival is dedicated to the sun god of fertility , Misi Saljong. Traditionally Wangala is celebrated for two to three days that also extends upto a week. However, metropolitan areas are often seen celebrating it for one day , in an attempt to preserve the ancient heritage of the Garo tribe and to expose the younger generation to their roots. This festival marks an end to the period of toil , which brings good output of the field. Different villages set different dates to celebrate this festival.
To discover the true essence of Wangala festival, one must visit the remote villages like Sadolpara in the West Garo Hills district of Meghalaya, where the festival retains its traditional practices. Here, communities continue to worship ancient deities, maintaining their customs and rejecting outside influences, including Christianity. A more commercialized version of Wangala is showcased at the 100 Drums Festival in Asanang. This three-day event draws performers from across the Garo Hills, as well as regions like Karbi Anglong, Tripura, and even Bangladesh, where Garo communities thrive. The festival features a myriad of activities, including sports, food, and cultural exhibitions, with Tura—the cultural and economic heart of the Garos—being prominently represented by students from Christian Girls’ Higher Secondary School, who learn traditional dances as part of their education.
The celebration kicks off with rituals such as Rugala, or the pouring of rice beer, and Cha•chat So•a, which involves incense burning. Led by the village priest known as Kamal, these ceremonies take place in the home of the Nokma, the village chieftain. The last day includes the Dama Gogata dance, where men and women don colorful attire and striking headgear, creating a mesmerizing spectacle that captures the spirit of Wangala.
Throughout the festival, participants—young and old—wear traditional garments such as Dakmanda, Daksari, or Gando, complemented by feathered headpieces (do’me). The air resonates with traditional music played on long, oval-shaped drums (Dama), while various performances take place, including Katta Doka (a style of singing), Ajia, Dani Doka (narrative singing about Wangala), and the Pomelo Dance (Chambil Mesaa).
The Wangala festival is a a way to showcase the rich culture and tradition of the Garo tribe as well as region. To truly experience the essence of the Wangala festival, consider traveling to the West Garo Hills this season with Guwahati Taxi. Enjoy a hassle-free journey as you immerse yourself in the vibrant dances and rituals that define this celebration. Create unforgettable memories as you connect with the Garo culture and its rich traditions. Make this Wangala festival an adventure you’ll cherish for a lifetime!