Khasi movie to be screened in London on March 14, Govt to support 43,000 artists under MGMP: CM
“The Blood and the Border” – a film about the Khasi culture by Wanphrang K Diengdoh will be screened at Portland Hall in London on March 14.
Informing this during his reply to the Budget discussion on Monday, Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma said, “This is the kind of exposure and support that Meghalayan Age Limited and Tourism department not just for Wanphrang but there are many film makers, who we are financially supporting today so that we are able to bring out our history, document the different cultures.”
“It is not just talking about it. These are real actions that we are showing. It takes time. The script of this move took almost 2-3 years to make. Like that, there are many filmmakers, whom we are supporting and it is a proud moment for us as Meghalayans to see that our culture and the history of our people will be showcased in London,”Sangma remarked.
The chief minister also pointed out that there are people who are criticizing the government for having concerts and bringing artists from outside saying, “These are necessary investments we need to make. That is how the concert economy works.”
“We need a USP or a particular artist to be the attraction to come in and the overall eco system of the music industry grows – so it is a process. One cannot look at this show and say why are we paying this because it is part of the larger goal but if it was the only thing we are doing then yes the picture and the strategy would not be complete,” he stated.
Under the Meghalaya Grassroot Music Programme (MGMP), the chief minister said the government has paid over Rs 17.5 crore to over 3,617 artists who have performed in over 7,621 shows across the state during the last 3 years.
“Let me assure the House and them and many other artists that our target is to reach 43,800 youths.
43,800 youth, we would like to bring into this and support and even if it means doubling or tripling this budget, I strongly feel that it is worth doing it,” he stated.
Further, the CM informed that the government has invested over Rs 10 crore under the Hello Meghalaya by supporting over 450 artists, who are Khasi, Garo and Pnar content creators.
“Music, arts and culture and movie making is not just about entertainment, actually we can create an economy out of it. We can create jobs out of it and we have been able to show that jobs have been created, will be created and we must continue to invest in this sector as there is a natural talent and competitive advantage that we as a state and the youths have in this line,” he stated further.
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