Wangala festival brings Garo harvest traditions to life in Sreemangal

The Garo community concluded their traditional Nabanna festival, Wangala, with prayers and harvest offerings last night after two days of celebrations, pulsing with drums, dance, and colour at the Fulchhara Garo Line field in Sreemangal upazila of Moulvibazar.

From early morning, people arrived in colourful attire, filling the field with music and traditional performances. Groups played harmonium, guitar, and traditional instruments while singers performed Wangala songs in the Garo language as villagers dedicated their new harvest to the creator.

Photo: Mintu Deshwara

Organised by the Srichuk Garo Nokma Association, the event began with prayers from Garo representatives of different regions, followed by the main harvest dedication ceremony and a cultural programme featuring traditional dances and songs.

A discussion meeting was addressed by Sreemangal UNO Islam Uddin, who delivered the keynote speech. Association President Anup Chisim presided over the event, with General Secretary Samuel Joseph Hajong conducting the session. Sreemangal parish priest Father Dr Shyamal James Gomes, BNP National Executive Committee member Mujibur Rahman Chowdhury, and Manipuri Lalit Kala Academy Deputy Director Prabhas Singha also spoke.

Traditional dance performance during the festival. Photo: Mintu Deshwara

"Wangala reflects the history, heritage, and culture of the Garo people. We celebrate Wangala to thank Missi Saljang, the god of crops, and to seek permission to eat the new harvest," said Association President Anup Chisim.

General Secretary Samuel Joseph Hajong explained that "Wangala is traditionally observed at the end of the monsoon and before winter, once the fresh harvest is ready. Until the festival is held, Garos refrain from consuming the new grains." He added that "Wana means gifts from the gods and gala means dedication," with the festival combining religious rituals and social celebrations.

"This is my first time at Wangala. My heart is full, it feels like a grand gathering," said Bilan Ruga from Sherpur.

Photo: Mintu Deshwara

Local Resident Apu Nakrek said, "Before bringing the new harvest home, we dedicate a portion to the Lord so that we receive an even better harvest next year."

"This is our Nabanna. We celebrate Wangala to offer our new harvest and spend the day dancing and singing, just as our ancestors did," said participant Ashish Dio.

Partha Chambugong noted, "After harvesting, we first dedicate it to the Lord and then consume it. We follow ancient customs, and by dedicating the new crop, we honour our King. It also brings together friends and guests from many places."