Modi tries hand at tribal drums in Meghalaya

Modi was in state to address 65th plenary of NE Council

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday tried his hand at playing the traditional Khasi drum as he wrapped up his two-day visit to Meghalaya. 

Expressing keen interest in the traditional folk art, Modi played other local musical instruments, and sang and danced with the Khasi tribals. He also interacted with leaders from at least 10 Himas (erstwhile independent Khasi states). 

The prime minister was in Meghalaya to address the 65th plenary session of the North Eastern Council. 

On Saturday morning, he was scheduled to visit St Mary’s Cathedral and Ramakrishna Mission. But due to inclement weather, the trip was called off. Later, accompanied by state Governor V Shanmuganathan, Chief Minister Mukul Sangma and Union Minister Jitendra Singh, he visited the famous Elephants’ Falls and sacred groves in Mawphlang on the outskirts of the capital Shillong. The locals were a happy lot when the PM obliged for selfies. Over a cup of a herbal tea, a local favourite, Modi spoke about how to boost tourism in the state and Northeast region. 

 He was keen to know about the sacred groves or forest fragments and sought to know details of how they were managed by the local community.

 Hunting and logging are usually strictly prohibited within the groves.

Modi also visited the Mattilang amusement park on the outskirts of the capital town and expressed admiration at the greenery around, a government official said.