In a vibrant celebration of Northeast India's artistic richness, two major cultural events recently spotlighted talents from the region-one in Bengal's Santiniketan and the other in Goa. At the Ramkinker Baij Memorial Art Camp held at Prakriti Bhavan, Santiniketan, 14 artists from Shillong's Riti Academy of Visual Arts participated in an inspiring cultural exchange. Led by noted artist and cultural activist Bah Raphael Warjri, the event featured collaborative sessions with Santiniketan's Kala Bhavan artists. Raphael Warjri also released his publication Kot, based on Khasi myths and legends, and screened his acclaimed film Apot. Meanwhile, in Panaji, Goa, the Octave 2025 folk festival brought together performers from all eight Northeastern states. Among the performers was Silbi Passah, representing Meghalaya with a soulful folk presentation that captivated audiences. Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant, who inaugurated the festival, praised the Northeast's cultural wealth and emphasized the need to protect traditional art forms. Together, these events reflect a growing recognition of Northeast India's deep cultural presence in different parts of India.
