Wangala Dance Headlines Northeast Cultural Showcase at Global Media Summit in Mumbai

Mumbai : Meghalaya’s traditional Wangala dance will be the highlight of a rich cultural celebration at WAVES 2025—the World Audio Visual & Entertainment Summit—which began today at the Jio World Convention Centre in Mumbai. The summit features a four-day cultural programme running through May 4, spotlighting the diverse artistic traditions of India’s northeastern states.Under the theme “Connecting Creators, Connecting Countries,” the event brings together performers from all eight states of the Northeast, providing a rare global platform to exhibit the region’s vibrant cultural identity. This year’s summit not only focuses on media and entertainment but also emphasizes the cultural richness of lesser-represented regions.The Wangala dance, also known as the "Dance of a Hundred Drums," will be performed by members of Meghalaya’s Garo tribe. Traditionally performed to celebrate the harvest and offer prayers to the Sun God, the dance features rhythmic drumbeats, bamboo instruments, and colorful attire, encapsulating the spirit of Garo heritage.Joining the lineup are Nagaland’s Tetseo Sisters, renowned for preserving the Li folk tradition through harmonious renditions in the Chokri dialect. Manipur will contribute with classical dance forms and martial arts demonstrations, showcasing the discipline and elegance of its cultural history. Tripura’s famed Hojagiri dancers, known for their extraordinary balance and coordination, will also take the stage with mesmerizing performances.The inclusion of these performances in a globally recognized media summit marks a significant acknowledgment of Northeast India's growing cultural influence. Experts in the entertainment industry believe that this exposure can boost the region’s visibility in the creative economy and foster greater cultural collaboration.WAVES 2025 is organized in collaboration with the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, Ministry of Culture, Government of Maharashtra, and leading digital platforms such as YouTube and Spotify. The summit aims to connect global media professionals while celebrating the depth and diversity of India’s cultural landscape.For the participating artists, the summit presents a unique opportunity to share their heritage with a global audience and potentially open doors to international creative platforms.