Cherry Blossom Festival in Meghalaya to Be Dedicated to Zubeen Garg’s Memory

 
Shillong, November 3: Every year, as November arrives, the rolling Khasi Hills of Meghalaya come alive with a breathtaking spectacle — the blooming of cherry blossoms. Draped in hues of soft pink, the hills around Shillong transform into a natural wonderland, marking the arrival of the much-loved Shillong Cherry Blossom Festival, an event that beautifully blends nature and culture.

This annual festival celebrates the ethereal beauty of the cherry blossoms and attracts thousands of visitors from across India and abroad. The streets and hills shimmer under the pink canopy, as cherry petals fall like gentle rain, creating an unforgettable experience for nature lovers and festival enthusiasts alike. The event also showcases Meghalaya’s rich cultural heritage through vibrant performances, traditional and contemporary music, local art, and delectable cuisine.

This year, however, the celebration will carry an added layer of emotion. The 2025 edition of the Cherry Blossom Festival will be dedicated to the cherished memory of Zubeen Garg, the legendary singer and youth icon of the Northeast whose music has inspired generations.

In a press statement, Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma announced that the government of Meghalaya will host the festival on November 14 and 15 at Shillong’s iconic Polo Grounds. “This year’s Cherry Blossom Festival will be a special tribute to the late Zubeen Garg, whose musical legacy continues to touch hearts across the region and beyond,” the Chief Minister said.

As in previous years, the festival will feature performances by renowned national and international pop artists, turning Shillong into a global stage for music and celebration. Thousands of domestic and international tourists are expected to participate, celebrating not only the natural splendor of the cherry blossoms but also the enduring spirit of music, unity, and remembrance.

The Cherry Blossom Festival of Meghalaya stands as a vivid reminder of the state’s charm — where nature, culture, and emotion bloom together in a spectacular harmony of pink.